Question:
What is the difference between proximal and distal Roux-en-Y?

   — Lindsey S. (posted on August 26, 2002)

August 26, 2002
The difference is how much of the intestines are bypassed. In a proximal RNY, less is bypassed. In a distal, more is bypassed, leading to more malabsortion and potentially greater weight loss. A superheavyweight would be a good candidate for a distal bypass. I won't give specific lengths because it seems to vary between surgeons.
   — Jon W.