The SADI-S procedure (Single Anastomosis Duodenal-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy) is an advanced bariatric surgery designed to help individuals achieve significant weight loss while improving obesity-related health conditions. At VIVE Bariatrics, we provide a range of weight loss surgeries, including the SADI-S procedure, to help patients on their journey toward a healthier lifestyle. Here, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the SADI-S procedure, helping you understand how it works, its benefits, and what to expect.
1. What is the SADI-S Procedure?
The SADI-S procedure combines two effective weight loss methods: a sleeve gastrectomy (removal of a portion of the stomach) and a duodenal switch (intestinal rerouting to limit calorie absorption). The goal is to reduce the amount of food you can eat while also limiting the number of calories and nutrients your body absorbs.
How it works:
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: The first part of the procedure involves removing about 75-80% of the stomach, leaving a small tube-shaped stomach (the sleeve), which restricts how much you can eat.
- Intestinal Bypass: The surgeon then reroutes a portion of the small intestine, creating a single anastomosis (connection) between the duodenum and a section of the ileum, bypassing a significant portion of the small intestine. This limits the absorption of calories, fats, and nutrients.
2. Who is a Good Candidate for the SADI-S Procedure?
The SADI-S procedure is typically recommended for individuals who have not achieved significant weight loss through diet, exercise, or less invasive weight loss surgeries. It’s especially beneficial for those with a high body mass index (BMI) or obesity-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
Ideal candidates:
- BMI of 40 or higher (or 35+ with obesity-related conditions)
- Individuals seeking significant and long-lasting weight loss
- Those who have had previous weight loss surgery and need revision surgery
Your bariatric surgeon will assess your medical history and weight loss goals to determine if SADI-S is the right option for you.
3. What are the Benefits of the SADI-S Procedure?
The SADI-S procedure offers several advantages over other weight loss surgeries, making it an effective solution for those struggling with severe obesity.
Key benefits include:
- Significant weight loss: Most patients lose 70-80% of their excess body weight within the first year after surgery.
- Improvement in health conditions: Many obesity-related health issues, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea, improve or resolve after the SADI-S procedure.
- Reduced hunger: The removal of part of the stomach leads to lower levels of ghrelin, the hormone responsible for stimulating hunger.
- Single anastomosis: Unlike traditional duodenal switch surgery, SADI-S involves just one surgical connection, reducing the risk of complications such as leakage or bowel obstruction.
4. What are the Risks and Complications of the SADI-S Procedure?
While the SADI-S procedure is generally safe, like all surgeries, it comes with potential risks and complications. Understanding these risks can help you make an informed decision.
Possible risks include:
- Nutritional deficiencies: Since the surgery reduces nutrient absorption, patients may develop deficiencies in vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B12. Lifelong supplementation and regular blood tests are necessary to prevent these deficiencies.
- Dumping syndrome: This occurs when food moves too quickly through the digestive tract, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness.
- Surgical complications: These may include infection, bleeding, or leakage at the surgical connection site.
- Bowel obstruction or hernias: In rare cases, intestinal blockages or hernias may develop, requiring further treatment.
Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks with you and provide guidance on how to minimize complications during your recovery.
5. What is the Recovery Process Like After SADI-S Surgery?
The recovery process after SADI-S surgery typically takes several weeks, with gradual improvement over time. Here’s what you can expect during recovery:
Immediately after surgery:
- You will stay in the hospital for 1-2 days after surgery for monitoring. You may experience some discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication.
- Patients are encouraged to walk and move around shortly after surgery to improve blood circulation and prevent complications such as blood clots.
First 1-2 weeks:
- During the first week, your diet will consist of liquids such as broth, protein shakes, and clear fluids to allow your stomach and digestive system to heal.
- You’ll gradually transition to pureed and soft foods over the next few weeks, following your doctor’s dietary guidelines.
Weeks 3-6:
- Most patients can return to light activities and non-strenuous work within 2-3 weeks. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.
Long-term:
- Follow-up appointments with your surgeon and dietitian are essential for monitoring your progress and addressing any nutritional deficiencies. You’ll need to take daily vitamin and mineral supplements for life to maintain proper nutrition.
- Weight loss will continue over the next 6-12 months, with most patients seeing dramatic improvements in their health and quality of life.
6. How Much Weight Can I Expect to Lose with the SADI-S Procedure?
On average, patients who undergo the SADI-S procedure can expect to lose 70-80% of their excess body weight within the first 12-18 months after surgery. The amount of weight loss depends on your adherence to post-operative guidelines, including dietary changes, exercise, and follow-up care.
Weight loss timeline:
- First 3 months: Rapid weight loss, with many patients losing a significant portion of their excess weight during this period.
- 6-12 months: Continued weight loss at a steady pace as your body adjusts to smaller portion sizes and fewer calories.
- 1 year and beyond: Most patients reach their weight loss goals by the end of the first year, although further loss can continue into the second year.
7. What Dietary Changes Are Required After the SADI-S Procedure?
Post-surgery, your diet will be a key factor in your weight loss success. After SADI-S, you will need to adopt lifelong dietary changes to support your new digestive system and maintain your results.
Key dietary changes include:
- Small, frequent meals: With a smaller stomach, you’ll need to eat smaller portions and avoid overeating.
- High-protein, low-carbohydrate diet: Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and healing. Carbohydrates and sugary foods should be limited to prevent weight gain and dumping syndrome.
- Lifelong supplementation: You’ll need to take daily vitamins and supplements, including multivitamins, calcium, iron, and B12, to prevent deficiencies due to reduced nutrient absorption.
Your dietitian will work with you to develop a personalized eating plan that supports your weight loss and overall health.
8. How Does the SADI-S Procedure Compare to Other Bariatric Surgeries?
SADI-S is similar to the duodenal switch procedure but involves only one anastomosis (surgical connection), which reduces the risk of complications. It offers greater weight loss and health improvements than sleeve gastrectomy or gastric banding alone but requires more dietary discipline and long-term supplementation.
Comparing SADI-S to other procedures:
- More effective weight loss than sleeve gastrectomy or gastric banding
- Lower risk of complications than traditional duodenal switch surgery due to the single anastomosis
- Requires lifelong supplements due to reduced nutrient absorption
Conclusion
The SADI-S procedure is a highly effective weight loss surgery that offers significant, long-lasting results for individuals struggling with obesity. By combining restriction and malabsorption, it helps patients achieve dramatic weight loss while improving their overall health. If you’re considering the SADI-S procedure, schedule a consultation at VIVE Bariatrics to learn more about how it can help you achieve your weight loss goals.