American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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What is the expected weight loss percentage associated with laparoscopic duodenal switch?

  1. 40-55%

  2. 55-69%

  3. 70%

  4. 80%

The correct answer is: 70%

Laparoscopic duodenal switch is a surgical procedure that combines elements of both sleeve gastrectomy and biliopancreatic diversion to promote significant weight loss, particularly in patients with severe obesity. The expected weight loss percentage associated with this procedure is typically substantial due to its dual mechanism of restriction and malabsorption. Patients often experience an average weight loss of around 70% of their excess body weight within the first 18 to 24 months post-surgery. This significant loss is achieved due to the reduction in stomach size, which limits food intake, as well as the rerouting of food away from a large portion of the intestine, which reduces calorie and nutrient absorption. The high percentage of excess weight loss aligns with the outcomes seen in various clinical studies, confirming that laparoscopic duodenal switch is one of the most effective bariatric procedures available for sustained weight loss and improvement in obesity-related comorbidities. Because of these factors, the choice indicating an expected weight loss of 70% accurately represents the typical outcomes for patients undergoing this procedure.