Question:
What is the difference between distal and proximal gastric bypass surgery?

I have heard the terms several times and I was curious what it means and the differences of one versus the other. Thanks ahead of time for your answer.    — Tara J. (posted on August 22, 2002)

August 21, 2002
As explained to me by my surgeon the difference is in the lengths of the intestinal limbs. Usually with Proximal the Roux Limb (limb connected to your new pouch) is about 100cm. The Common channel(limb connecting the limb from your new pouch and old stomach) is 400cm long(this is what carries "stuff" to your colon. Now the Distal bypass is different with the limb lengths. The Roux limb is usually about 400cm, and the common channel 100cm. I hope this helps, I used the diagrams my physician gives to his patient. I will also let you know there is a medial(middle)RnY, it is basiclly the middle of the proximal and distal. I understand though that some surgeons do not perform. Good luck. If you have any questions feel free to e-mail me. [email protected]. Just 5 more days to go.
   — Jennifer E.

August 22, 2002
Its the amount of intestine bypassed, usually measured in centimeters. I believe that under 150 cm bypassed is called a proximal and over 150 is called a distal. Usually the more weight you have to lose, the more intestine bypassed. The more intestine bypassed, the more malabsorbtion.
   — Cindy R.