Mini Gastric Bypass (OAGB)

The Mini-Gastric Bypass, also known as the One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB), is an alternative to the traditional Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. It combines two key effects:

• Restrictive: Reduces the size of your stomach, making you feel full with less food.
• Malabsorptive: Reroutes the intestines, reducing the absorption of calories and nutrients.

Like the traditional bypass, this procedure stimulates the production of hormones that improve glucose metabolism. The primary difference is that the mini-bypass requires only one intestinal connection, simplifying the surgical process.

How Does it Work?

After surgery, you will feel full with smaller amounts of food, helping you follow a low-calorie diet without hunger. The reduced stomach size and shorter intestine path also mean you absorb fewer calories. This procedure can have a stronger metabolic effect, making it an excellent option for patients with metabolic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or elevated cholesterol. Up to 80% of patients may no longer need medications after surgery.

Benefits of the Procedure:

1. Long-term weight loss: Promotes sustained weight loss.
2. Stronger metabolic impact: Particularly beneficial for conditions like type 2 diabetes.
3. Simpler surgery: Requires only one intestinal connection, reducing the surgery time and complexity compared to the Roux-en-Y bypass.

Concerns to Consider:

1. Nutritional deficiencies: Patients need to follow recommended vitamin and mineral supplements to avoid deficiencies.
2. Ulcer risk: There is a small risk of developing ulcers, especially in smokers or those who frequently take pain relievers like NSAIDs.
3. Dumping syndrome: Eating foods high in sugar or fat can cause "dumping syndrome," leading to nausea, dizziness, and other discomforts.