Question:
BPD -not- a DS

My closest DR. does a BPD only, but not the Duodenal Switch. (Biliopancreatic Diversion) This seems like the worst/best of both worlds, you dump, are restricted on fats, AND have lifelong nutrition issues. I don't see the up side. Also the DR referred to it as "basically a distal RNY" - but that isn't what the diagram looked like. Help! Is this new or old, good or bad? Any feedback?    — [Anonymous] (posted on April 30, 2001)

April 30, 2001
There is a mailing list for BPD Alums that you can read the archives and possibly get some emails of people who are living with the BPD. Here's the addy for you: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BPD_Alums. Good luck in your research...
   — [Deactivated Member]

April 30, 2001
It's my understanding that BPD is completely different than RNY in the sense that it's a bit more radical; more gets done surgically. If you aren't feeling comfortable with the doctor and his analysis of the surgery(ies), I'd say your first line of defense is to shop around until you find one you are more comfortable with.
   — Jennifer P.

May 3, 2001
Run, don't walk, to another surgeon. The BPD is NOT the same thing as the DS and none of the reputable doctors in the US do the classic BPD-they all only do the BPD-DS (Duodenal Switch) this doctor needs to do some serious continuing education if he thinks the BPD is essentially the same as the DS- and anyone else who thinks that is also in need of help. Go to duodenalswitch.com andyou will see the most current and up to date informatin on the DS. Thisis the operatin of choice and of the here and now. The BPD was good in it's day but has been replaced by newer, better, and more effective technology. You are right when you say the the BPD is the worst of both operations. Teh stomach portion of the BPD leaves the stomach size smaller than normal but definately not the 1-2 oz pouch. and then there are all the anastomosis precautions to think about and then the intestinal components as well. The DS is the acceptable operation, not the classic BPD and even though the classic is not considered malpractice it is still not the state of the art treatment and is not considered by the leading bariatric surgeons in the US. Do your research and you will see.....
   — Fran B.

March 25, 2003
03/25/03 Run don't walk to your BPD surgeon. Its a much better alternative to the RNY. Your left with a nearly normal size stomach and can eat like normal once you've gotten past the first 18 months. With the RNY your stuck with eating thimble sized meals the rest of your life - IF you don't ever want to regain the weight. Which you CAN do with the RNY. Yes with the BPD you have to be careful of your vitamin needs forever but how hard is it to take your vitamins everyday? The success rate for BPD patients is 90% of weight lost is still off 10 years later! I don't think the RNY comes anywhere close to that. My surgeon (DR. Sifers) in Overland Park Ks. is very knowledgeable of this type of surgery that has been done in Europe for over 20 years. No its NOT new. It was devised as a way of helping RNY patients lose the weight AGAIN. No I'm not an expert. I only know that I am living proof that it works. I have lost 120lbs since Dec. 2002. And I can eat a normal meal with family and friends.
   — Rich C.