If you’re living with a BMI of over 50 and considering weight loss surgery, you’ve likely come across a number of different procedures — two of the most talked-about being the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) and the Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy (SADI-S). Both are powerful tools in the fight against severe obesity, but when it comes to patients with higher BMIs, robotic SADI-S is increasingly emerging as the preferred choice.
At Blackrock WeightCare, we specialise in delivering state-of-the-art bariatric surgery, including the most advanced robotic SADI-S, for patients from across Ireland and the UK, including the London region. If you’re considering your options, here’s why robotic SADI-S might be the best decision you’ll ever make.
What Is SADI-S and How Does It Compare to RYGB?
SADI-S is a relatively newer procedure that combines a sleeve gastrectomy with a bypass of a portion of the small intestine. It requires just one intestinal connection (anastomosis) rather than two, making it technically simpler and potentially safer than RYGB.
RYGB, on the other hand, involves creating a small gastric pouch and rerouting the small intestine in a Y-configuration, which requires two separate connections between the stomach and intestines.
When performed using the da Vinci robotic surgical system, the SADI-S procedure becomes even more precise and refined, with the potential for reduced complications, faster recovery, and more consistent outcomes — especially in patients with higher BMIs.
Why Robotic SADI-S Is a Better Option for Patients with a BMI Over 50
- Stronger and More Durable Weight Loss
One of the most compelling reasons to choose SADI-S over RYGB is the degree and durability of weight loss. SADI-S consistently results in greater total weight loss and better long-term maintenance of that loss. This is critical for patients with a BMI over 50, who typically require more significant and sustained weight reduction to improve their health outcomes.
Several long-term studies have shown that patients undergoing SADI-S maintain a higher percentage of excess weight loss at 5 years compared to those who have had RYGB. This means fewer revision surgeries, better quality of life, and a greater chance of resolving obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, and hypertension.
- Less Dumping Syndrome
RYGB is well-known for a troublesome side effect called dumping syndrome, where food passes too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine. This can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, dizziness, and even fainting — especially after eating sugar or rich foods.
SADI-S, in contrast, has a much lower risk of dumping syndrome. This is because the stomach remains more physiologically intact, and food transitions through the digestive tract in a more natural way. Patients report greater eating satisfaction and fewer restrictions after SADI-S — a significant advantage for those looking to regain control of their lives without constant discomfort.
- Simpler Anatomy and Fewer Long-Term Complications
With only one intestinal connection, SADI-S has a lower risk of internal hernias, ulcers, and bowel obstructionscompared to RYGB. This makes the long-term outcomes more predictable and potentially reduces the need for future corrective surgery.
The robotic approach enhances these benefits. Using robotic technology, surgeons at Blackrock WeightCare achieve exceptional precision, even in patients with higher body mass, where visibility and access can be more challenging during traditional laparoscopic surgery.
A Note on Nutrition: Vitamins and Lifelong Care
Like all malabsorptive bariatric surgeries, SADI-S requires a lifelong commitment to nutritional supplements. In particular, because part of the small intestine is bypassed, patients need to take daily multivitamins including vitamins A, D, E, and K, along with other key nutrients like iron, calcium, and B12.
At Blackrock WeightCare, our patients receive comprehensive follow-up care including blood monitoring, nutritional support, and access to a dedicated multidisciplinary team to help you thrive long after your surgery.
Why Choose Blackrock WeightCare?
If you’re based in London or the United Kingdom and are looking for expert bariatric surgery, we invite you to consider Blackrock WeightCare. We are based in Dublin, Ireland in the premier private hospital — Blackrock Clinic
Here’s why so many UK-based patients choose us:
- Robotic surgical excellence – Our surgeons are among the most experienced in Europe in robotic bariatric procedures.
- Personalised care pathway – From your first consultation to your final follow-up, our team is with you every step of the way.
- Quick access to surgery – With no long waiting lists, you can begin your transformation without delay.
- High safety and success rates – We’re proud of our exceptional track record in outcomes and patient satisfaction.
- Cost-effective private care – Many patients find the cost of surgery in Ireland to be significantly lower than private options in the UK.
Start Your Journey Today
If you’re living with severe obesity and searching for the most effective, safest, and most sustainable surgical option, robotic SADI-S at Blackrock WeightCare may be the answer.
We’re here to help you make an informed decision that suits your goals and health needs. Call us at 01 255 2479 to book a consultation.
Your Health. We Care.
