The Difference: Modified Duodenal Switch vs. Gastric Bypass

When it comes to bariatric surgery, both the Modified Duodenal Switch (MDS) and the Gastric Bypass are highly effective procedures that deliver substantial, long-term weight loss. While they share some similarities, they differ in technique, results, and the types of patients they’re best suited for. Understanding the benefits and differences of each can help you make the best choice for your health and lifestyle.

What Is the Gastric Bypass?

The gastric bypass, or Roux-en-Y, involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting part of the small intestine. This reduces how much food you can eat and how many calories your body absorbs. Gastric bypass is one of the most commonly performed bariatric procedures due to its long history of success in both weight loss and improvement of obesity-related conditions.

What Is the Modified Duodenal Switch (MDS) or SADI?

The Modified Duodenal Switch or SADI is really the exact same procedure, 2 names for the same thing. This Surgery combines the sleeve gastrectomy with a rerouting of the intestines, similar to a bypass This approach provides both restriction and malabsorption, often leading to greater and more sustained weight loss compared to other surgeries. It is the most  effective surgery for patients with obesity or metabolic conditions like Type 2 diabetes.

Key Differences Between MDS and Gastric Bypass

  • Weight-Loss Results:
    • MDS patients typically experience the most dramatic weight loss, often losing 80-95% of excess weight.
    • Gastric Bypass patients generally lose 70-80% of excess weight, which is still highly effective.
  • Impact on Health Conditions:
    • Both surgeries can improve or resolve Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
    • MDS tends to have a stronger and longer-lasting effect on metabolic conditions.
  • Nutritional & Medications:
    • Both procedures require lifelong vitamin and mineral supplements
    • The biggest advantage of the Modified DS is that there are NO medication restrictions like the Gastric Bypass. With the MDS, you can take Steroids and medications like Ibuprofen, motrin and Celebrex. You cannot take these with a Gastric Bypass. 
  • Complexity of Surgery:
    • Although the MDS is technically more complex to perform than a  gastric bypass, our Surgeons are the most experienced Surgeons in the country having completed thousands of each of these procedures. 

Which Surgery Is Right for You?

The decision between MDS and gastric bypass depends on several factors, including:

  • Your current BMI and weight-loss goals.
  • Whether you have obesity-related conditions, such as diabetes or severe sleep apnea.
  • What medications you may or may not need in the future

At Roller Weight Loss & Advanced Surgery, our bariatric experts perform a thorough evaluation to determine which option is best for you. Both surgeries can be life-changing, but the best choice will depend on your health needs and lifestyle.

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re considering weight-loss surgery, schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We’ll help you compare all available procedures and create a plan tailored to your long-term success.