I had my duodenal switch operation 12/11. I'm scheduled for surgery again on Feb. 7, 2017 to make common channel longer so I can absorb my Vitamins. I have very foul gases and stool at this time. Has anyone had this procedure and does it help with gases and stool. Vitamins? p.s. very embarrassing. wont even sleep with the wife because of this. Help!! Thank to all that could give me some insight. Have a good day.

I have a single-anastomosis duodenal switch with a 300 cm common channel. Even with that I had severe problems with explosive diarrhea & odor for the first 2-3 of months. Of course, my surgeon has a very strict post-op diet regimen that was only Clear liquids for week 1, clear liquids plus 5 (yes, 5!) Protein shakes for weeks 2-4, puree for weeks 5 & 6, soft for weeks 7 & 8, then regular foods starting with week 9.

A lot of problems with foul-smelling gas & stool is related to how much fat you eat. Because the fat is poorly absorbed & passes through undigested, it causes the odors. Try eating less fat & see if that decreases the frequency of stools.

Still, my gas & stools have always been less "fragrant" than my husband's & he has never had bariatric surgery!

Thank you for your input but I had my surgery on 12/6/2011. Still having problems. Sorry for the misunderstanding. So has been 5 yrs. Dr. stated I would gain some weight also. Just hope this next surgery will help me. thanks so much.

What is your cc now? Is it shorter than 100? If so, your Vitamin absorption will definitely be more difficult than if it's 100 or above. And yes, now that your doctor is lengthening your cc, your gas & stool smells should be less fragrant. However, they still will probably be worse than an average person's. You can can help to control them by what you eat and when.

Edited January 27, 20179 yr by Postop