Gastric bypass surgery, also known as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is a weight loss procedure that involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting a portion of the small intestine to this new pouch. This limits the amount of food that can be consumed and reduces the absorption of calories from the food.

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The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and can be done through traditional open surgery or using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic surgery. In laparoscopic surgery, several small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a small camera and specialized instruments are used to perform the procedure.

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Gastric bypass surgery is usually recommended for individuals who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.

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The procedure can lead to significant weight loss, with most patients losing between 50% and 70% of their excess weight in the first two years after surgery. It can also improve or resolve obesity-related health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.