Rochester, N.Y. - A new study is out weighing two different surgical methods for weight loss.
Researchers at the University of Utah found the duodenal switch technique, a rarely-used bariatric procedure, had better results that gastric bypass. Doctors found the duodenal switch technique also resulted in fewer risks.
Dr. William O'Malley, the Director of Bariatric Surgery at Highland Hospital, said the duodenal switch is not always the best option.
"For the average patient that we see for a body mass index under 50, it's probably more operation than they really need," Dr. O'Malley said. "As far as the incremental increase in weight loss, they may experience, it's not going to be significant. The people who are at the higher end of the weight that we see, there might be an advantage for them as far as better weight loss.
Dr. O'Malley said the decision between the two surgeries should be made on a patient-by-patient basis. He said the duodenal switch appears best for patients who are extremely obese.
