What is a mini bypass?

[toodlerue 452]

I see people on here talk about a mini bypass. What is the difference between a mini bypass & a Roux n y (bypass)?

[kcuster83 1,504]

I had to google it when I saw it the first time.

Apparently they bypass less of the intestines with mini bypass, otherwise the same.

[RickM 1,752]

The mini, as its name implies, is a simplified variant of the RNY. Rather than bringing up the added Roux limb below the stomach pouch, they tie the pouch directly into the intestines downstream of the duodenum; how far down depends upon how much malabsorption they want to induce. The classic proximal RNY is fairly minimal in the amount of malabsorption it offers, and indeed the caloric malabsorption tends to dissipate after a year or two. There is a distal RNY which is more highly malabsorptive - similar to the DS - but it is not often done in the US.

The mini has been kicking around on the periphery of bariatrics for some twenty years or so but has never gained traction in the US and is not usually covered by US insurance. Classically, it is more prone to bile reflux and possibly acid reflux as well, as with the bile, there is the prospect of things getting recycled and refluxed back up into the stomach. There are claims that some techniques have been developed to mitigate this problem but I haven't seen any independent verification of that. But, there may be something to that as the mini has become somewhat mainstream in other countries, so we do see it discussed here some, But in the US it is rare and it is mostly offered in Mexico as a cheaper alternative to the RNY.

[Smanky 751]

My surgeon prefers it to the RNY as he's seen better long-term results and it's a shorter surgery than the classic RNY. Everyone's surgeon will likely favour certain procedures, but I am supremely happy with my mini. No dumping, and no other issues.

[qtdoll 535]

I live in a city that focuses a lot on beauty & looks, & I've met people who have gotten the mini bypass & mini sleeve. However they were women who got it while their bmi is under 30 & wanted to get rid of those last few lbs so they look better. I believe most people I met or heard about getting it got it in Mexico as they're obv would not be approved here. I know this doesn't answer your question but I find it fascinating that the only-slightly-overweight do this too lol

[toodlerue 452]

Thanks for all of the information! My surgeon said he didn’t bring up as much intestine but he didn’t call it a mini bypass.