Question:
Can someone explain the Distal procedure.

I went to see my surgeon and he said if I get approved by insurance that he will be doing the distal procedure on me. What is the difference between proximal and distal? I weigh 429, is it determined by your weight which procedure is done? Is this a more serious procedure than the other? I would like to hear from some people that have had this procedure done and what to expect down the road. Hope to hear from you soon, Thanks!    — LEE R. (posted on July 12, 2002)

July 12, 2002
Dear Lee, Your surgeon should have explained the difference. He/she should make the decision based on your weight, condition, age, etc. I know you're several hours away from your surgeon and it's a long distance call, but call the office and tell them to send literature. Also check out the library on this site. Good luck. Janis
   — Janis D.

July 12, 2002
The question is HOW distal? What measurements? Distal is sometimes in the eye of the speaker, so you'd have to be more explicit.
   — vitalady

July 13, 2002
Hi. My understanding is that there are three types of RNY surgery and they are called proximal, medial and distal. The LENGTH of the REMAINING ILEUM (small intestine) is the determining factor as to what "type" of RNY you have. The average lengths of ileum that remain are: Proximal (101 inches/255 centimeters) Medial (61-100 inches/ 153-254 centimeters) Distal (40-60 inches/101-152 centimeters) The SHORTER/MORE DISTAL your procedure, the more malabsorption you will experience and therefore usually the more weight you will lose. Hope this helps!
   — Rebecca T.