Sleeve Gastrectomy, also known as vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is a successfully
proven surgical weight-loss procedure. The procedure is minimally invasive
and is performed laparoscopically, involving small incisions along the
upper abdomen. The procedure removes 70-80% of the stomach, reforming
the remaining part into a small, tube-like shape. This procedure is intended
to reduce hunger and restrict the amount of food patients are able to
consume. Patients can anticipate reducing their excess body weight by
75% or more. Most importantly, medical conditions are dramatically improved
after the weight-loss, such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.
In comparison to other bariatric procedures, the Sleeve Gastrectomy has
an advantage over the Laproscopic Banding in that there is no foreign
body implanted, and in contrast to the Gastric Bypass, there is less change
in the absorptive capacity of nutrients and possible vitamin deficiencies.
Possible Candidates
Sleeve Gastrectomy is done to help those who are overweight reduce their
risk of weight-related health issues such as: high blood pressure, diabetes,
sleep apnea, and heart disease. In general, ideal candidates for the procedure
have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher (severe obesity), or those
who are experiencing health problems associated with excessive weight.
Patients considering sleeve gastrectomy should be open to following precautionary
measures leading into the surgery, including avoiding alcohol and tobacco
products and stopping the use of certain medications. Patients should
also be willing to make permanent and strict healthy lifestyle changes
after the procedure.
Risks
Sleeve Gastrectomy, as with any major surgery may have associated health
risks. Minimal risks related to the surgery may include blood clots and
leaks from the stomach. Working with an experienced surgeon and team can
help avoid unnecessary risks and ensure that patients reach optimal outcomes.
The surgery itself can produce significant improvements in quality of
life measures, such as sleep cycle, level of confidence, and how a person
views themselves, to name a few.
