Weight Loss in Relation to the Length of Small Intestine Left in Continuity after Jejunoileal Shunt Operation for Obesity

Abstract

Juhl, E., Quaade, F. & Baden, H. Weight loss in relation to the length of small intestine left in continuity after jejunoileal shunt operation for obesity. Scand. J. Gastroent. 1974, 9, 219-221.

In 10 obese patients treated with jejunoileal anastomosis leaving 50 cm of functioning small bowel (37 cm proximal jejunum anastomosed end-to-side to 13 cm of distal ileum), the absolute weight loss was approximately the same irrespective of the patient’s initial weight; the average decrease being 17 kg after 3 months, 27 kg after 6 months, and 36 kg after 18 months. This means that the very obese individuals stabilized their weights at a too high level. As the weight loss has proved to be unrelated to degree and duration of reflux to the excluded ileum, we shortened the functioning small bowel in the next 5 patients to 47 cm (34 cm of proximal jejunum and 13 cm of distal ileum), whereupon the weight losses were greater after 3 months (23 kg). 6 months (38 kg), and 18 months (61 kg). The results indicate that the length of functioning small intestine is the main factor determining weight loss, and it seems recommendable to individualize the operation in accordance with the initial body weight.

Key-words::

• Bypass operation
• jejunoileal anastomosis
• obesity
• small bowel
• weight loss