Bypass surgery for obesity

Failure of conservative methods of control of gross obesity has led to the adoption of surgical measures. In our experience intestinal bypass, though resulting in significant weight loss, is associated with a number of unpleasant complications. For this reason our programme now involves the use of 90% gastric bypass. The results in our first 39 patients undergoing this operation are presented, with a six-month to three-year follow up. Weight loss has been satisfactory. Although it is a more major procedure than intestinal bypass, the lack of major metabolic sequelae makes gastric bypass the more acceptable form of management.