Dumping syndrome

Dumping syndrome also referred to as gastric dumping syndrome or rapid gastric emptying is characterized by rapid entering of undigested food from the stomach into the small intestine. Due to this the small intestine is expanded too quickly as the hypertonic contents of the stomach causes rapid shift of fluid or water into the lumen of the intestine leading to contraction of plasma volume acute distension of intestine. Symptoms of early dumping begins within 15-30 minutes after eating a meal and include nausea and vomiting, intestinal bloating, diarrhea, intestinal cramping, fatigue and dizziness. Symptoms of late dumping occur 1-3 hours after eating a meal and include sweating, weakness, and dizziness (symptoms of hypovolemia). Dumping syndrome usually occurs in individuals who had a gastric bypass surgery (Roux-en-Y surgery). Dumping syndrome is more likely to occur with ingestion of certain types of foods such as refined sugars, dairy products and certain fried foods.

What are the possible side effects of bariatric surgery?

There are multiple side effects that can occur after laparoscopic gastric bypass or laparoscopic gastric sleeve.

Side effects include:
– Vomiting
– Dumping syndrome
– Nutritional deficiencies
– Gallstones
– Need to avoid pregnancy temporarily
– Nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, excessive sweating, increased gas, and dizziness

This is just a short list. Please speak with your surgeon regarding possibilities relating to your specific comorbidities.

What are the complications and risks associated with bariatric surgery?

As with any surgery, there are immediate and long-term complications and risks. Possible risks can include, but are not limited to:

– Bleeding
– Complications due to anesthesia and medications
– Deep vein thrombosis
– Dehiscence (separation of areas that are stitched or stapled together)
– Infections
– Leaks from staple lines
– Marginal ulcers
– Pulmonary problems
– Spleen injury
– Stenosis (narrowing of a passage, such as a valve)
– Death