Question:
I have seen these 2 terms used in relation to the RNY.

Just curious what the difference is between proximal and distal?    — Kim D. (posted on February 7, 2001)

February 7, 2001
I had a open RNY distal on 11-1-00 I am 5'6 and weighed 260 my sister was 5'2 and weighed 209 she wasn't even a 40 BMI so it doesn't matter your BMI it depends on your Doctors preferance I started out looking at proximals and switched to a distal for more assurance that i would not gain this weight back.. I am a sweet eater and didn't want to blow yet again another attempt to rid my poor ageing body of this Mass I have carried for so many years.. I have lost 57 lbs since Nov 1 and have found the distal to have few side effects that being Fat i didn't already have..bowl movements and gas..lol so please look into the distal when researching this surgery and talk with other distals Kathy
   — Kathleen M.

February 7, 2001
The decision for a distal vs. proximal RNY is a very personal one and SHOULD NOT be left up to the surgeon. This is YOUR body and only you can be the one to decide. There are pros and cons to both types. The distal reduces the absorption of nutrients and therefore CAN (but does not always) result in nutrient and mineral deficiencies which can effect the body later in life with such diseases as osteoperosis. The proximal surgery, while allowing more absorption has it's own downfall and that is that you still have to "watch" what you eat and cut down on calories. There is a higher percentage of weight lost with distal patients than proximal, although enough weight can be lost and KEPT off to look good, get rid of some of the comorbidities assosciated with obesity and still maintain the body's much needed nutrition. As I said, this decision is very personal and many people prefer distal to proximal or vice versa. We all have to make a choice based on our own bodies and desired results. Good Luck!
   — Laura B.