Question:
What is the difference between proximal and distal?

I am so sorry if this has been asked before but I don't know the difference between proximal and distal. Is one better than the other? Does one have a better success rate? Do you have a choice? Thanks.    — Susan M. (posted on September 15, 2003)

September 14, 2003
Check the library - there is a wealth of information on this topic. In short, no two surgeons seem to agree on a definition, but proximal is usually less than 150 cm bypassed while distal is up to 18 feet bypassed. Numbers seem to indicate that distals have an easier time maintaining their weightloss long term.
   — Rachael B.

September 14, 2003
First poster pretty much said it all but wanted to add a comment. With distal, because more of the intestine is bypassed, you will absorb less calories, fat and nutrients than if done proximally. I think doctors generally reserve this for the heaviest of their patients because it is more malabsorptive.
   — Judy R.

September 15, 2003
Every surgeon is different just like the first post said. When my surgeon performs proximal RNY's it is a roux limb that could be 75cm to 100cm. The Distal is over 100cm. Distal RNY bypasses usually result in more weight loss but more malabsorbtion. My surgeon usually only performs Distal on people with BMI's of 45 or more. BMI's of 35-45 usually get the proximal version. Just remember that the more intestine that is bypassed the more malabsorbtion, the more malabsorbtion you have results in more weight loss and don't forget possible problems with diarrhea and smelly bowel movements. Go to a search engine and put in "proximal vs distal" and I will bet it will come up with some websites for better information. Also make sure you ask your surgeon what he thinks.
   — Kara J.