What type of procedure is RYGB?

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) is classified as both malabsorptive and restrictive due to the way the procedure alters the gastrointestinal tract to promote weight loss.

The restrictive component is achieved by creating a small pouch from the stomach which limits food intake by significantly reducing the volume that can be consumed at one time. This pouch creates a feeling of fullness sooner, thereby affecting appetite and caloric intake.

The malabsorptive aspect arises from rerouting a portion of the small intestine to connect to the newly formed gastric pouch. This alters the normal digestive process, leading to decreased absorption of calories and nutrients. Essentially, as food bypasses a segment of the small intestine, not all consumed calories are absorbed, contributing further to weight loss.

Overall, RYGB combines these two mechanisms—restricting the amount of food that can be eaten and reducing the calories absorbed—making it an effective surgical option for obesity treatment.