[Malabsorption methods in bariatric surgery]

In Europe, the incidence of morbid obesity amounts approximately 1% of a nation's population. At the time being, a surgical procedure represents the only effective long-term therapy of morbid obesity. In this regard, the gastric bypass is the most common surgical method in the USA, also gaining relevancy in Europe. The development, the basic principle and the actual operation technique are shown. The mode of functioning, complications, surgical alternatives, risks, results and outcome are discussed. Over the past years, bariatric procedures and techniques have been improved, which resulted in a reduction of the risk and in an improvement of the results. Long- term success can be achieved regarding weight reduction and decrease of comorbidities. The gastric bypass is a safe and effective surgical procedure in the treatment of morbid obesity.