What Do I Need to Know About Duodenal Switch? Here Are the FAQs

Are you considering duodenal switch surgery? Learn more about this procedure from our experienced bariatric surgeon who has answered some of the most commonly asked questions about this technique:

Q. What is duodenal switch and how does it help patients lose weight?
A. Typically performed as a biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS) or vertical gastrectomy with duodenal switch, this surgery is a weight loss procedure used by individuals to lose weight when diet and exercise fail. This complex technique provides dual benefits: restriction of food intake to appropriate-sized meal and malabsorption of fat intake.

Q. How does duodenal switch differ from other types of bariatric surgery?
A. Duodenal switch is one of the more complex weight loss surgeries and as such is only performed by a small number of bariatric surgeons. It offers the highest potential for weight loss, reversal of comorbidities (medical conditions associated with obesity), and highest rate of sustained weight loss.

Q. Who is a good candidate for duodenal switch surgery?
A. Ideal candidates for the surgery typically have a BMI of 50 or higher, with or without weight-related medical issues. In some cases, a patient with a lower BMI and weight-related medical conditions may be a candidate. Patients who are considering sleeve gastrectomy with duodenal switch procedure must exhibit a clear commitment to compliance to the recommended nutrition and vitamin guidelines and verbalizes understanding of the procedure by the time of surgery.

Q. Will my medical insurance cover the cost of duodenal switch surgery?
A. Generally speaking, most insurance policies who offer bariatric surgery benefit will also cover duodenal switch procedure. The best way to find if you have insurance benefit for bariatric surgery is to call your insurance provider or to call Bagshahi Bariatric to make an appointment, which can include verification of insurance benefits.

For additional information, or to find out if duodenal switch is right for you, contact our practice to schedule a consultation.