Jejunoileal bypass. Late metabolic sequelae and weight gain.

Of 101 patients originally operated on, the status of 98 is known. Given the mortality and reanastomosis rates, the operation must be considered an absolute failure in 28 percent of the patients. Given the other complications that appear (or persist) late postoperatively, only 18 percent of the entire series of patients have had what can be considered a good result. We therefore conclude that intestinal bypass is not an appropriate operation for morbid obesity and that complete long-term follow-up is essential for all patients who undergo the operation, despite what might seem to be a smooth course in the 1st 2 years postoperatively.