Question:
What is the difference in having a RNY done that uses part of the

esophagas as the pouch, and using the upper portion on the stomach? Which is better?    — Barb48 (posted on August 3, 2005)

August 3, 2005
The uppermost portion of the stomach is used in creating the pouch in the RNY because that is the part that has been stretched the least and which tends to be strongest. The esophagus is not used as a part of the pouch; however, because of the close proximity between the esophagus and the pouch, when patients overeat, the food backs up into their throats, causing them to gag (which helps in teaching us to take small bites of small portions very slowly). However, the esophagus is not intended to be used a repository for food-- multiple medical complications typically result when post-ops habitually overeat and force their throats to serve as a residual stomach.
   — SteveColarossi

August 3, 2005
I have to agree with the other person who has answered. The esophagus is NOT intended to be used a receptacle for food. Having known someone with a disease that basically destroyed the muscles in her esophagus and knowing the problems she has had (inability to swallow and both food and liquids coming back up immediately) I cannot imagine using the esophagus as a pouch!!! Definitely the upper portion of the stomach! I have heard however of some surgeons who don't use the upper portion but transect from the curved side of the stomach. I've heard reports that these have fewer problems with malabsorbtion and vomiting...that's only what I've heard...I don't know this for certain. Good luck! Carmen
   — kccjer