Question:
RNY - Proximal, Medial Or Distal?

I know this is personal preference and depending on lifestyle, but I am so confused as to what surgery I should have. I am leaning towards the Medial RNY...I am a revision from a stomach stapling done in 1998...any suggestions? What have others had? What would you change or do different? Any help or ideas would be great! Thank you! I am 340lbs and 5'9".    — Tracey67 (posted on January 24, 2006)

January 24, 2006
Not all the doctors offer those choices. They mjay offer 1 or 2 models. I see you are not far from here. I might recommend docs in this area who give seminars that explain the various surgeries offered and give you some questions to ask yourself to help you choose the right procedure for you.
   — vitalady

January 24, 2006
My thought is RNY. It is the most popular procedure and it seems to have the greatest results. I know several who have had RNY and they have lost over 75% of the excess weight. Myself, I lost 100% of my excess weight. I contribute that to attending a support group every single month now for 2 years! Who wants to go to see others and be the one who gained weight back? Not me...Keeps me watchful and keeps me informed and on my toes to see this through all the way for the rest of my life. SUPPORT IS KEY! Vera from Ohio 260/135
   — vhoupt

January 24, 2006
If you choose RNY, I believe the Dr. determines which procedure is best for your body.
   — LauraA

January 25, 2006
I guess I should know this, but can someone explain the difference? Thanks. xosm
   — Gi G.

January 25, 2006
I believe you are referring to the length of the so called Roux limb, or that portion of the small intestine that is bypassed. You see, the longer the segment of small intestine that is bypassed, the more malabsorption of nutrients and the greater the potential weight loss. We usually reserve the longer bypasses for the more overweight patients, or those who would like further weight loss after allready having had a gastric bypass, provided one's nutrition is acceptable for this modification.
   — Dr. Brackman