Jejunoileal bypass

Jejunoileal bypass is a type of surgery that was formerly used to treat obesity. The procedure involves bypassing a large part of the small intestine to limit the absorption of food. However, it has been largely abandoned due to severe side effects and complications.

History

The jejunoileal bypass was first performed in the 1950s as a treatment for severe obesity. It was one of the first surgical procedures developed specifically for weight loss. However, by the 1980s, it was largely abandoned due to the high rate of complications and side effects.

Procedure

In a jejunoileal bypass, the surgeon disconnects most of the jejunum and ileum, the middle and last parts of the small intestine. This leaves only a small portion of the small intestine for the absorption of nutrients. The rest of the small intestine is then reconnected to the large intestine.

Complications and Side Effects

Complications and side effects of jejunoileal bypass can be severe and include malnutrition, liver disease, kidney stones, and diarrhea. Many patients also develop a condition called bypass enteritis, which is inflammation of the bypassed section of the small intestine.

Current Use

Today, jejunoileal bypass is rarely performed. Other types of bariatric surgery, such as gastric bypass and gastric sleeve, are now preferred because they are safer and more effective.

See Also

• Bariatric surgery
• Gastric bypass
• Gastric sleeve