The choice of bariatric operation that is right for you can be confusing.
There are advantages and disadvantages to all procedures and unfortunately no magic equation or algorithm which can dictate which operation each individual patient should have. Sometimes there is a clear clinical indication that influences the choice of procedure, for example, a patient with significant acid reflux should avoid a sleeve operation. For others, the choice of operation is influenced by both patient preference and sometimes surgeon bias.
Patients often know someone who “did well’ after a particular operation and this can be a strong influence. No matter what operation you feel is right for you, it is important to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the possible procedures with your surgeon. Of course, you may get differing opinions from different surgeons!
We’ve created a useful table to compare bariatric and metabolic treatments so you can better inform yourself of the best choice for you. If you’re still unsure, get in touch with our team and we can discuss our treatment options in more detail.
SADI-S | RYGB | OAGB | Sleeve | |
Full Name | Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass – with Sleeve | Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass | One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass | Sleeve Gastrectomy |
Mechanism | Restrictive and Malabsorptive | Restrictive and Malabsorptive | Restrictive and Malabsorptive | Restrictive |
Anastomosis | One | Two | One | None |
Advantages | High weight loss
High resolution of comorbidities Low incidence of dumping syndrome |
High weight loss
Good resolution of comorbidities The established procedure with long-term data |
High weight loss,
Simpler procedure than RYGB Fewer potential complications |
High weight loss
Low operative risk Lower cost than other procedures |
Disadvantages | Nutritional deficiencies
Higher risk of diarrhoea and foul-smelling stool |
Higher risk of complications such as dumping syndrome
Bowel obstruction or ulcers |
Risk of significant bile reflux
Questions regarding the effect of long-term bile reflux into the stomach |
Risk of heartburn reflux
Potential for inadequate weight loss or weight regain |
Average Weight Loss | 70-80% of excess weight | 60-70% of excess weight | 60-70% of excess weight | 50-60% of excess weight |
SADI-S | RYGB | OAGB | Sleeve | |
Robotic Operating Time | 75-100 minutes | 50-80 minutes | 50-80 minutes | 30-50 minutes |
Hospital Stay | 2 days | 1-2 days | 1-2 days | 1-2 days |
Recovery Time | 2-3 weeks | 2-3 weeks | 2-3 weeks | 2-3 weeks |
At Blackrock WeightCare we offer our patients several possibilities. While the mainstay operations remain RYGB and Sleeve Gastrectomy – both OAGB and SADI-S can be good choices for selected patients. We anticipate that the benefits of the SADI-S procedure will see it become a much more common procedure in the years ahead, particularly for those with a BMI of over 45-50. See our thoughts on why in our other blog in relation to this, here.
Ultimately, we all need to remember that surgery is not a cure for obesity. It is a fantastic treatment which must be integrated into your plan for lifestyle change. That is why Blackrock WeightCare provides all of our patients with a comprehensive follow-up program of care which includes regular contact with your surgeon, superb dietitians, specialist nurses, endocrinologists to look after your medical health, physiotherapists to advise you on activity after surgery and psychologist as needed.
Contact us to make your appointment today. We see all enquiries promptly. We will check your insurance for you and we treat all patients with openness, honesty and dignity – the core values of our team.
Your Health. We Care