Robotic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Obesity can be a cause of GERD and related issues, such as hiatal hernias. Studies have shown that increased body mass index (BMI) and excess eating can put stress on the gastroesophageal junction. Certain bariatric surgeries can correct GERD as a tool for weight loss. The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure is more successful at reducing GERD symptoms, compared to the gastric band or the gastric sleeve – which can worsen reflux.

The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass removes a large portion of the stomach, where acids are produced, and reduces the amount of food that can be consumed. This reduction of consumption can reduce the stress on the esophageal sphincter and/or reactions caused by certain foods or liquids that could lead to GERD symptoms.

At Bay Surgical Specialists, when a patient chooses a gastric bypass, they will go through our holistic program to determine if they are a good candidate. Our surgical team, a nutritionist, a fitness consultant, and a clinical psychologist will meet with the patient to work through the weight loss journey － before and after surgery. When it is time for surgery, the patient will be given general anesthesia and the surgeon will make a series of small incisions for the robotic instruments. The surgeon will inspect the stomach and use a surgical stapler to divide the stomach into a small pouch section, which will hold a few ounces of food. Then they will make an incision into the jejunum and connect the jejunum to the stomach pouch. A large portion of the stomach, the entire duodenum and a portion of the jejunum will be bypassed to give less surface area for calorie and nutrition absorption.

The surgeon will need only a few stitches to close the incisions. This surgery takes between one and two hours and requires only an overnight stay. After the procedure, patients will be monitored by our medical staff, nutritionist, fitness consultant and have the option to participate in a therapeutic support group.