Question:
Can someone try to help me to understand the difference in distal and proximal

when it is talked about in connection with open RNY? Which of the two provides optimal weight lose and does one carry more complications than the other? Does one work better in reference to long term? Also, what is ballooning? I read that somewhere and was just curious! I love this web site and I am so happy to have found it. I have learned a lot here. I have my consult appointment on 10/17, only 4 days away, and I would love to hear from anyone who has something they would like to share with me! I have emailed several people and have not gotten much response, however I know some of you great people out there must want to share and support an extremely excited pre op like me!! Thanks in advance for all of your help with my question and happy Sunday!    — poohdotsmom2 (posted on October 13, 2002)

October 13, 2002
Misty, There is alot of information in the library section of this website on proximal versus distal bypasses. It is my understanding that the main difference is the amount of intestine bypassed. More intestine is bypassed in the distal procedure which results in even less food and nutrient absorption and speeds up the weight loss process (at least in theory). Distal patients have to be twice as diligent in getting in their protein, vitamins, and calcium or they wind up with serious nutritional deficits. I believe distal is used on more often on super morbidly obese patients rather than on "lightweights" like me with less to lose. I started at 260# and received a proximal bypass. My weightloss has been slower but I have no problems getting in my protein, vitamins, etc. Your surgeon will most likely determine which procedure is best for you. Hope this helps.
   — LLinderman