Reversal of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass due to malabsorption in a patient with reduced small bowel length

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is one of the most performed bariatric procedures worldwide. Although the complication rate is low, the benefits gained from surgery outweigh many risks, including malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, and recurrent marginal ulcers. Since RYGB changes the length of the functioning small bowel and because small bowel length is highly variable, the outcomes, which include weight loss, resolution of medical problems, and development of nutritional deficiencies or limb length, can be highly variable. We present a case of laparoscopic reversal of RYGB. A 52-year-old female patient presented with diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance, and severe weight loss 12 months after RYGB, and a reversal of RYGB was needed to overcome these severe issues. After surgery, she made a full recovery. On follow-ups, she is doing well.