Question:
proximal & distal

I have a surgery date of Dec. 7th and I was just wondering what the difference was between proximal and distal? Thanks so much and God Bless!!    — Steph M (posted on October 27, 2005)

October 27, 2005
Proximal RNY is when the surgeon bypasses less than 50 cm of intestine. Medial is between 50 and 110cm. Distal is anything over 110cm. Different doctors choose different lengths for their patients based on their own experience, the needs of their patients, etc. Each has its own advantages.
   — Patricia C.

October 27, 2005
Hi Stephanie, Im going to give you the definitions of Proximal Distal. I am in the health field and this is an Anatomy term. They are Directional terms used when talking about placement in the body. Distal means: Furthest away from the trunk of the body. Proximal Means: Closest to the trunk of the body. Which bacially means. If you have a Distal RNY it is going to be further away from the trunk of your body which means the surgeon will take more of your intestine. Which means it will absorb even fewer fat and callories than a proximal. this is the one you want if your surgeion will allow it. A Proximal RNY: Proximal meaning closer to the trunk takes less of the intestine so there is more there to absorb more fat and calories. Hope this clears it up for you a bit.Got to love ANATOMY...LOL Your WLS Sister Jo Michalko
   — Jo_Michalko

October 27, 2005
Conijo is right. The terms distal and proximal are used fairly loosely in reference to this surgery, each surgeon has his/her own definition as per exact length.
   — RebeccaP

October 29, 2005
I'd just like to thank you for asking that question. I am hoping to have surgery, appt. with surgeon on Tues.Anyhow,that is good to know prior to going in. I'm adding itto my questions for the doctor list. Thanks again! Best of Luck on you surgery!!! Lisa
   — Lisa Michelle