Question:
I had a proximal RNY (open). How does this differ from the distal RNY?

I guess I should have asked this before I let the doctor cut me open, but ... what is the difference between a proximal and a distal RNY? I had a proximal RNY. Does it mean I will lose less weight?    — Terissa R. (posted on September 6, 2001)

September 6, 2001
Hi there. And congratulations! My understanding is the difference between a proximal and distal RNY is the amount of the intestine that has been bypassed. In other words a proximal means less intestine bypassed and a distal means more. I had a proximal open RNY (approx 10 feet bypassed) and have lost 117 lbs and 43 inches in a little less than 8 months. Good Luck!
   — Cindy K.

September 7, 2001
The last poster was right, the difference between proximal and distal is the length of the intestine bypassed. You can achieve your goal results with both, however my surgeon generally performs the distal on super morbids because it has more long term success. However, with this success, comes even less nutrient absorption, so there is a trade off. I'm sure you'll be perfectly fine with your proximal. You may not lose as fast, but you can still lose it all, and maybe your won't be as malnourished as we distals can be. Best of luck to you.
   — [Anonymous]

September 7, 2001
Hi, I had the proximal. That is the only surgery my doctor does. He feels it is better to have less weight loss and more absorbtion of nurtrients.
   — Terry H.