Question:
Is dividing the stomach into 2 parts better than just stapling with the RNY

Is the divided stomach or undivided stomach better in the long term. I'm concerned about staple line breaking down in the undivided approach.    — [Anonymous] (posted on May 27, 1999)

May 27, 1999
I think they can both be good, but I have heard of situations where someone had leakage where they had the separation and they just started leaking into the split stomach, or it had scar tissue that grew over it. I think that if they remove it is better. But I am not a Doctor. But I felt worse with the thought of having split RNY that is why I chose the surgery I had where they removed 75% of my stomach and took it out.
   — Allison Mupas

May 27, 1999
Good question . . . keep in mind that the more complicated the surgery the more complications that are possible! There is no weight loss advantage between divided and undivided gastric pouches. Up to a couple years ago surgeons only put in 1 or 2 lines of staples . . . today most of the surgeons use 4 lines of titanium surgical staples. My surgeon said when he does VBG to RNY revisions, he rarely ever sees any disruption, usually it is stretched. Staple line disruption is almost non existant. Even in the divided procedures, staples are usually used . . . so why go through the extra time on the table and the extra healing if there is no weight loss or medical advantage???
   — [Anonymous]

May 27, 1999
Goodmorning ... I'm not sure which is best, divided or just staples, but I have the divided stomach, and it has certainly worked for me. I am 6' and have gone from 397 lbs to 175. I am 17 months post op and life just keeps getting better.
   — Mary Anne M.

May 28, 1999
If I could, I'd have the transected stomach. My bypass works just fine, but being done in 1994, I'm just stapled and sutured, rows and rows. Although I've held my weight for several years now, I live in fear of lsoign my staple line. If I had a choice, I'll keep my new small size and LOSE the fear. Separate 'em.
   — vitalady