Mini Gastric Bypass | Denver Center for Bariatric Surgery

OAGB/Mini Gastric Bypass

About the procedure

The One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass or Mini gastric bypass procedure is similar to the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RYGB) performed to assist an individual with weight loss and the subsequent resolution of weight-related diseases. The procedure delivers the same result as the gastric bypass surgery but through the use of a surgical technique that takes less time. 

The mini gastric bypass surgery may be the ideal choice for you if you have a BMI of 40+ or a BMI of 35+ with comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, or other serious obesity-related health issues.

How It Works

During the OAGB procedure, the surgeon will make the patient’s stomach smaller by splitting it into two unequal parts through the use of surgical staples. The smaller part of the stomach — about 25% of its original size — is what will be used going forward with the larger section remaining unused. The next step is bypassing the large section of the small intestine which does not require as much surgical rerouting as in the traditional gastric bypass surgery. 

The surgery is performed laparoscopically with the patient under general anesthesia. The surgeon will usually make about five small incisions in the abdomen for insertion of surgical instruments. The surgeon will reroute a section of the small intestine (duodenum) and part of the bowel connecting it to the new smaller stomach. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, the remaining portion of the stomach is not removed but is no longer involved in the digestive process.

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Health Benefits

The health benefits of the mini gastric bypass surgery are much the same as that of the traditional gastric bypass surgery. You may experience losing up to 70% of your body’s excess weight, as well as complete or partial remission of conditions such as sleep apnea, acid reflux, heart disease, PCOS, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, lipid disorders, joint pain, and more. You may also experience a preference toward healthier food choices because of how your smaller stomach responds to sugars, fats and carbs. This surgery will also help you improve your routine daily activities, creating a better quality of life. Most importantly, the surgery almost always results in boosted confidence and self-esteem.

OAGB/Mini Gastric Bypass Benefits

  • Lower complication rates
  • Same expected weight loss as gastric bypass surgery
  • Remission of weight-related medical conditions

What Are The Risks?

The risks are similar to that of the traditional gastric bypass surgery with varying degrees of severity. The possible risks include blood clots, infections, leaks in your intestinal system, or breathing problems. The OAGB surgery carries risks that are similar to any abdominal surgery — however, when performed in a Center Of Excellence, such as our practice, the risks are about the same as having your appendix removed. Our safety record is in-line with or exceeds the standards set by the ASMBS in all regards.

As with any weight-loss surgery, we will teach you how to increase your success and safety through our detailed, pre-operative education program.

How Much Will Your Procedure Cost?

We have successfully helped thousands of patients with insurance coverage over the years. Use our insurance checker to see if you qualify for coverage from your insurer or have a look at our competitive self-pay rates.

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What To Expect After Your Procedure

Before you choose to undergo this surgery, make sure you and your doctor are on the same page in terms of your expectations post-surgery. How much weight you will lose depends on your weight before surgery but, on average, patients lose around 67% of their excess weight. Most people stay in the hospital for two days for recovery.

You can expect to resume normal daily activities two to three weeks after your surgery. It’s crucial that you prioritize your healing and rest in the early postoperative period.