Health Care

Knowing Your Bariatric Procedure Options: What is SADI?

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If you’re thinking about having a bariatric procedure, know that it’s not a cure all for obesity, but a lifelong commitment to healthier living. As you consider your options, know that there are different types of weight loss surgery, and that each one has different effects and outcomes depending on the unique individual undergoing the operation.

We’re here with our weight loss surgery expert, Amit Taggar, MD, who is well-versed in performing a weight loss procedure called SADI (Single Anastomosis Duodenal Interposition). As you consider your options about which bariatric procedure is right for you, read on to learn more from Dr. Taggar about what SADI is, how it’s performed, why it works and more.

What is the SADI procedure?   

Dr. Taggar: SADI, or a simplified duodenal switch, is a modification of an operation of the duodenal switch, which is a procedure that has been done over 30 years.  It is a procedure that combines a gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Unlike the duodenal switch this modification only has one connection instead of 2 and "bypass" less small bowel to minimize the complications of the duodenal switch. 

Therefore, we get the benefit of both procedures to have better weight loss outcomes and resolution of medical problems without having as many long-term side effects of the Duodenal Switch.   

How is SADI performed? 

Dr. Taggar: It is performed minimally invasively (small incisions). The first part of the procedure is making a sleeve and the second part of the procedure we "bypass" most of the small bowel by connecting the first part of the small bowel (duodenum) to the area 300 cm above the small bowel from the colon. 

Therefore, we get the benefit of both procedures to have better weight loss outcomes and resolution of medical problems.  

Why does SADI work?  

Dr. Taggar: SADI works by using both a restrictive and a malabsorptive procedure to experience weight loss and resolution of medical problems. This changes GI hormones of both the foregut (top part of the GI tract) and hindgut (the bottom part of the GI) tract to promote results.  This is unlike gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy which work mainly on the foregut and not the hindgut procedure. 

This is why SADI is a great procedure for those who have had a sleeve gastrectomy in the past and require a revision for weight or medical comorbidities.

Do you see SADI becoming a more widely used procedure?  

Dr. Taggar: I do see SADI becoming a very popular procedure. It’s a safe and effective operation that has minimized side effects of the traditional Duodenal switch. It also has better results compared to the sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass. 

With so many sleeve gastrectomies being done, SADI is also the perfect revisional operation for patients with inadequate weight loss.  

What are some takeaways about SADI that you can offer potential patients about SADI?  

Dr. Taggar: SADI is a safe, effective, and stronger operation than the traditional bariatric surgeries. There are slightly increased long-term side effects, so this operation is mainly used for patients with high BMI or significant medical comorbidities. 

It’s also a great option for patients that had a sleeve gastrectomy in the past that have more weight to lose or still have significant comorbidities.  

Get on the Right Path With Personalized Bariatric Care

At AdventHealth, we know that diet and exercise alone often aren’t enough to get you where you need to be. That’s why our weight loss solutions go beyond what’s on your plate and how you work out to help you build a healthier body, mind and spirit.

When you’re ready to make a change, Dr. Taggar and the rest of our world-class team will help you get started. To learn more or to request an appointment, visit us at AdventHealthWeightLoss.com.

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