Best WLS for Type II diabetes: DS

The form of WLS that most effectively reverses Type II diabetes is gastric reduction-duodenal switch, which is precisely why I chose it. The rate of reversal for the RNY/gastric bypass is good (83.7%); the DS rate is better (98.9%). In addition, the rate of excess body weight lost and maintained over time is greatest with the DS as opposed to other forms of WLS. (It's true that RNY/gastric bypass patients lose more quickly, initially, as they are given 1-2 oz. "pouches," while the DS patient is left with a stomach of 4-6 ounces.) DS patients eat more regular sized portions of food after the first few months of recovery and have fewer dietary restrictions than RNY patients. We do, however, need to follow a low carb diet and take supplements for the rest of our lives. I am 4+ months out from my DS, had a blood sugar reading of 388 on the morning of surgery on three different medications (Actos, metformin, and glyburide), and I am now off *all* diabetes meds. I'm 45, 5'6", I started at 280, I'm now 213, and the weight-loss window for the DS is 12-18 months, so I'm doing very well. My personal goal is 155. I'm not dissing the RNY (had I not been able to get the DS, I would have opted for it msyelf), but I do feel that it's important to do research on the different forms of surgery available. Alison http://deluzy.blogspot.com/

Alison, I agree, its best to research all the surgery options and surgeons available to us. I researched for 2 yrs before deciding on the RNY. The statistics you mentioned for DS and diabetes are wonderful......its great to hear your success in the last 5 months......congratulations and continued success. I had to laugh......I don't think my surgeon gave me a 1-2 oz pouch with my RNY.....at 3 months PO, I was able to eat more than most of my fellow post ops, (like a whole lean cuisine). This is with a silastic ring around the pouch to make me feel fuller... so now being alittle over 2 yrs, its a daily struggle, and I have to learn to eat 3 healthy meals so I don't regain. I did gain back 10-12 lbs (depending on the day), but was fortunate to know from other PO's its normal. I would love to get to goal, which means another 40 lbs to go, but I refuse to diet, like I did for decades, so I chose healthy and exercise everyday...and try and be kind to myself to avoid the vicious cycle. Well I just wanted to say, I agree with research......knowledge is power!! Take care, Wendy 278/288/150

What about people with Type II and a relatively low BMI (30-32)? What bariatric surgery is generally recommended for them?

With that low of a BMI you would not even qualify for surgery