The Duodeal Switch Procedure

 So as some of you my know, I wrote a post not to long ago about how scared I was about this whole process. I must say though that after everyones kind words I feel much better.  Still uneasy, but much better than i was. I've taken your advice and have looked at all the options available. I think I have piked one that  I feel best about. The Duodeal Switch Procedure. I was wondering if those of you who have been through this procediar could give me so heads up on how it goes and what to expect? Along with anything I may need to be aware of. 

Try posting this on the DS forum, they are very helpful with answering questions on the "Switch".

http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/DS/board_id,5357/user_id

HTH, Phred

 Definitely ask questions on the DS forum out here, and read up on this site, about the DS by DSers:

http://www.dsfacts.com/index.html 

Just wanted to let you know I got your friend request, but I can't PM you back because OH has me on permanent, super-secret moderation. (*grin*) You can e-mail me directly at missvonbatt@*removethisspace*yahoo.com.

 Hi, and welcome to the Doudenal Switch. I also investigated all the possible surgeries, ended up going for the D.S. because I wanted one surgery, no need for another surgery revision to the D.S. as lots of other surgeries seem to be headed to eventually. My insurance would only pay for one WLS in a lifetime. This is why I went for the D.S. insuring the most weight loss, less chance of regain, ability to eat my normal foods, including treats once in a while without dumping or nausea while eating out in restaurants with friends. I can take NSAIDS. My pylorus is intact and functional for normal digestion. My stomach works like always, but is much smaller, easily filled and satisfied with way smaller meals. I do have gas from time to time, but not really a problem. Bowel habits are controlled by the kind of foods you choose to eat. The more protein I eat, the slower my colin empties. 
It did take a good 6 months to get used to eating small amounts and feeling really good. Most people find they improve at the 5-6 week point post surgery when internal healing is complete. I liked to walk post surgery as much as I could. Walking became so much easier as my weight dropped. Now I truly enjoy working out at the gym. My work outs have really helped me tone my body into a great shape. I do have some lose skin, but plan to have a tummy tuck soon.

None of my clothes or shoes from my pre surgery days fit me. Plan on a new wardrobe, but dont buy too much till you have reached your goal weight. The changes in sizes came so fast, this surprised me the most. I have had a positive effect on my families meal choices. They are asking for more healthy meals, and Dr. check-ups to get into shape. No matter what age or what weight, dont waste time making changes for a healthier life.

I am so glad I chose a  highly regarded surgeon for the D.S., Dr. Kemmeter. I had no complications. He and his team took great care of me throughout my first year now and beyond. They are still watching my labs and having me come in for checks on a schedule for at least 2 years or more. Dr. K said I am a patient for life. This makes me confident I will have medical back-up should any problems arrise in the future. Its great to have a safety net with the D.S. or any kind of WLS. With confidence in my surgeons ability and experience with the D.S. I was relieved of any and all worries as I went into surgery. I am lucky to be only an hour away from their office, but would travel to have surgery with him even if I lived across the country.

The more research you do all over the internet, the more educated you will be about the D.S. and the requirements needed to maintain your health with the D.S. Protein, fluids, vitamins and exercise are all a must. This is major surgery we are talking about here. Choose your surgeon wisely. Ask how many D.Ses he has done. Experience makes all the difference for a good outcome. 

P.M. me if you have any more questions. I love to help people find their way through the forrest of WLS options. I am very pro D.S. None of the other surgeries would have worked for me. I am happy to have the D.S., and would choose it again if I had to do it over. My only regret is not having it sooner in my life. I didnt realize how limiting excess weight could be, not to mention how unhealthy being over weight can be for longevity. My internist said she has never seen an obeise  80 year old.

 Hi - I hadn't even heard of the DS procedure until now and I'm very close to the surgery for by-pass. I have had second thoughts about by pass and will now look at DS. Since my surgeon didn't mention this as an option I'm guessing they won't do it at Humber /TO.

 I cancelled my sleeve surgery to research the D.S. , and switched surgeons. Best advice is to think twice, cut once. So many are having a revision to the D.S. I wanted to have one surgery, chose the most help to lose weight  and maintain with the D.S. My insurance would only cover one surgery, my choice had to be the biggest surgery for the most help with weight loss. I never regretted having the D.S.  I reached my goal weight in 8 months, and have no trouble maintaining for the past 5 months so far. My life has changed so much for the better. I have hip and knee arthritis, sacroiliac joint pain. Pre surgery I couldnt walk out to my mailbox. Now I can walk the track a few miles, treadmill, weight machines, shop the entire mall without any hip or knee pain. I can keep my exercise going for 2-3 hrs a day, and work in the garden, all pain free. I can take NSAIDs with the D.S., but havent needed to take anything for pain because there is no pain. Lots of stretching helps too- pre and post work out.

Some people do have complications to deal with. I didnt have any.  Everyone is different with unique medical conditions. This is why finding the most experienced surgeon makes all the difference in your outcome. 

Sadly, there are VERY few DS surgeons in Canada. You might want to post on the Ontario forum for more info.

 Check your insurance also.  My insurance won't cover it unless your BMI is 50 or greater.  I was interested in it, by I would never get approved for it.

You might get that iverturned---we have a number of DSers who did. It's a totally bogus reason for denying a patient the procedure they prefer.