Biliopancreatic Diversion
A major malabsorptive bariatric surgery that reduces nutrient absorption by rerouting the small intestine, producing substantial and sustained weight loss.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) is a weight-loss surgery that changes the path food takes through your digestive system, reducing how many calories and nutrients your body absorbs. It is one of the most effective bariatric procedures for severe obesity but requires lifelong nutritional monitoring and supplementation due to reduced absorption of vitamins and minerals.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) is a malabsorptive bariatric procedure involving a distal gastrectomy (leaving a 200–500 mL gastric pouch) and division of the small intestine into two limbs: a short alimentary limb and a longer biliopancreatic limb that join in a common channel of 50–100 cm. This anatomical rearrangement severely limits fat and protein absorption, producing 70–80% excess weight loss. The BPD with duodenal switch (BPD-DS) variant preserves the pylorus and creates a sleeve gastrectomy rather than a pouch.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
BPD achieves the greatest and most durable weight loss of all bariatric procedures, particularly for patients with BMI above 50. However, the higher risk of nutritional deficiencies and complications means it is reserved for carefully selected patients after thorough evaluation at a specialised centre.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.