Question:
How does a surgeon decide how many centimeters to bypass?

I want to get as much malaborption as possible within healthy limits. If you know how much your surgeon bypassed ,please advise with your bmi so I can determine whats average.    — leslie M. (posted on April 15, 2003)

April 15, 2003
Although a few doctors vary the amount they bypass based on the patients BMI, most of the time I think they bypass a set amount for every patient they do regardless of individual factors. Also some insurances specifiy exactly how much can be bypassed and thus the doctor has no choice. Different doctors bypass different amounts. Some bypass 100, some 120, some 150, some only 6" (no kidding!). Its up to us to check out our doctors and choose the best doctor for us. You might start by checking to see if your insurance has guidelines for how much the doctor can bypass. If so, there you go, thats the max. that can be bypassed. Second, you have to find doctors who accept your insurance. If there is no stipulation as to how much is bypassed then you can check into each doctor separately. Its a very personal decision as to how much each of us feels comfortable with. Some people are very afraid of the malabsorption and thus would rather have a more proximal bypass. Others are more afraid of not making it to goal or being able to keep it off and would rather have a more distal bypass. Its very personal and up to you, but start with your insurance as they may have the final say in the end anyhow.
   — Shelly S.

April 15, 2003
My BMI at the time of surgery was 81 and I had 200cm bypassed. My surgeon bypasses different amounts depending on the patient's BMI, so I lucked out. Good luck!<br> Lap-RNY 1/13/03 -100lbs & Counting!
   — thumpiez

April 15, 2003
I have had tis discussion wth my surgeon. He says it has to do completely with the individual. The way they measure is by using a tool (like forceps} to approxamate the distance. If you are having LAP the DR cannot take out your intestines and measure them!! This is ithe art of the surgeon. Pick a good one and do what he says!! Good Lux
   — Robert L.