Question:
Sewing the pouch vs. stapling

The doctor I have chosen hand sews his pouches during the lap RNY. Can anyone give me any information on what is considered to be better? When a surgeon sews the new stomach is this what is considered to be transectional? Any information or links on this procedure are greatly appreciated.    — A M. (posted on May 10, 2003)

May 10, 2003
Transecting means completely cutting between the pouch and the rest of the stomach, My surgeon puts in four rows of staples, then cuts between the inner two rows, thus completely seperating the pouch from the larger part of the stomach. Scar tissue forms over the staples as healing progresses, thus preventing staple line disruptions later. I would assume your surgeon sutures the pouch instead of stapling - but transecting means seperating the pouch and stomach.
   — Patty_Butler

May 10, 2003
I asked my surgeon why he stapled instead of sewed, and he said it was because of time; It takes longer to sew than to staple. Which is better, I do not know. Transected means that the pouch is completely separated from the old stomach.
   — Cosmo K.

May 11, 2003
My surgeon does both. He oversews all staples just to absolutely sure of no leaks or in case something would happen to a staple in the future. To him, he is not worried about any extra time. I guess it goes fast for him as most surgeries are 90-120 minutes. I am transected.
   — zoedogcbr