Experiences with conversion of jejunoileal bypass to gastric bypass: its use for maintenance of weight loss
W. O. Griffen Jr, J. M. Hostetter, R. M. Bell, B. A. Bivins and C. Bannon
Jejunoileal bypass for morbid obesity has been associated with a variety of
long-term adverse sequelae, including excess diarrhea, electrolyte
imbalance, kidney dysfunction, liver abnormalities, and polyarthropathy.
Takedown of the bypass without providing a means of maintenance of weight
reduction will lead to recurrence of morbid obesity. We studied 32 patients
who underwent conversion of jejunoileal bypass to gastric bypass either in
one procedure (27 patients) or more than one procedure (five patients).
There were no operative deaths, but significant morbidity. Nevertheless,
the conversion has maintained weight reduction and reversed the adverse
effects of the small-bowel bypass. We concluded that conversion of the
jejunoileal bypass to the gastric bypass, particularly with a Roux-en-Y
anastomosis, in a single procedure is relatively safe, simple, and
effective.
