BACKGROUND: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) procedures can be technically demanding because of anatomical factors including fat distribution, organ fixation, and wound depth. We developed a technique using the Multifire Endo GIA 60 2.5 disposable surgical stapler which allows greater mobilization, less blood loss, and decreased operating time. METHODS: A disposable stapler designed for laparoscopic surgery was used to transect the gastro-colic omentum and small bowel mesentery in 67 morbidly obese patients undergoing RYGB. Generally, five to six stapler cartridges were needed for the transections. RESULTS: Stapler division of the gastro-colic omentum and small bowel mesentery decreased operating time by an average of 25 minutes. CONCLUSIONS: Applying principles of laparoscopic surgery to RYGB resulted in more efficient mobilization of the stomach and the small bowel mesentery, as well as decreased blood loss and operating time.
BACKGROUND: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) procedures can be technically demanding because of anatomical factors including fat distribution, organ fixation, and wound depth. We developed a technique using the Multifire Endo GIA 60 2.5 disposable surgical stapler which allows greater mobilization, less blood loss, and decreased operating time. METHODS: A disposable stapler designed for laparoscopic surgery was used to transect the gastro-colic omentum and small bowel mesentery in 67 morbidly obesepatients undergoing RYGB. Generally, five to six stapler cartridges were needed for the transections. RESULTS: Stapler division of the gastro-colic omentum and small bowel mesentery decreased operating time by an average of 25 minutes. CONCLUSIONS: Applying principles of laparoscopic surgery to RYGB resulted in more efficient mobilization of the stomach and the small bowel mesentery, as well as decreased blood loss and operating time.