As with any other operation, like weight loss surgery, there are always potential complications associated with Duodenal Switch (DS). Because the procedure is one of the most intricate surgery options, there is an increased rate of possible complications associated with having it.
Since this procedure is reserved for extra big people with higher BMIs receiving this operation, they are at a higher risk of having things go wrong during or after surgery.
List of Potential Negative Outcomes
– Vitamin Deficiencies
Perhaps the most common complication of duodenal switch surgery occurs because malabsorptive techniques are used in order to help patients lose weight. The body is not absorbing the same amount of nutrients from food as before; many will experience basic vitamin deficiencies. Some of these vital vitamins include Iron, Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K. A doctor or bariatric nutritionist will recommend multivitamins and other supplements in order to get the body back on track and working its best.
According to John Hopkins Hospital, nearly 18% of people who have duodenal switch surgery develop some protein-energy malnutrition. If this condition, also known as kwashiorkor, becomes severe, it can be potentially life-threatening. A thiamine deficiency is also common, known as beriberi, which can permanently damage the nervous system if left untreated. This makes post-op visits with a doctor and a nutritionist vital to one’s overall health.
– Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
This condition occurs when acid from the stomach starts to back up into the esophagus, which causes a burning sensation or heartburn. Many patients experience GERD-like symptoms before surgery, and many do after surgery because of the alterations to the stomach. Oftentimes, excess gas is caused by eating too many carbohydrates of certain types. Also, diarrhea can occur if a patient is eating too much fat.
– Bowel Changes
Many patients experience frequent and loose bowel movements multiple times a day. They also experience foul-smelling gas and frequent flatulence. This is often changed by watching the diet and learning which trigger foods cause these symptoms in a patient. This can also be caused by lactose intolerance.
– Blood Clots or Leaks
Any surgery that involves stitches in the stomach or intestines runs the risk of leaks. Bleeding or blood clots are also potential risks of complications.
– Liver or Spleen Injury
During an aggressive procedure such as duodenal switch surgery, the liver or spleen could be injured. In extreme cases, the spleen has to be removed entirely.
Other potential complications
During surgery, bleeding, blood transfusion, or organ damage can occur. Immediately post-op, a patient can experience infection, abscess, bowel obstruction, bowel perforation, pancreatitis, or pneumonia. Long-term complications include hernia, anemia, osteoporosis, kidney stones, diarrhea, and bowel obstruction.
It’s important to understand that no weight loss surgery, especially not duodenal switch surgery, should be considered a quick fix to losing weight. It is imperative that patients follow a healthy lifestyle post-op to ensure an improved quality of life and overall health improvement.
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