Bilio-pancreatic diversion (BPD) is a strictly malabsorptive procedure, meaning weight loss is achieved by altering how food is digested and absorbed by the body. BPD accomplishes this change by re-routing a substantial portion of the small intestine. The exact details of the procedure vary from patient to patient, but results tend to range from 70% to 80% of excess body weight loss. One particular advantage of BPD is that patients may be able to continue eating fairly normal-sized meals, though extensive dietary changes are still required. Risks and side effects can include diarrhea, malodorous gas, and lifelong vitamin and mineral deficiencies that should be addressed with supplements to maintain good health.

Click here to view a simple animation that illustrates the procedure.