What is sleeve gastrectomy?
Sleeve gastrectomy is an innovative new weight loss surgery procedure that results in weight loss through restriction. During surgery, a small portion of the stomach is stapled to make a tube or sleeve. The rest of the stomach (around 85 percent) is removed. This part of the surgery is not reversible. The procedure is usually performed laparoscopically, even in patients weighing more than 500 pounds. Benefits: • The intestine is not bypassed in this procedure, reducing the possibility of vitamin and protein deficiency. • The pylorus is preserved, reducing the chance of dumping syndrome. • The simplicity of the procedure reduces risk of leaks. • This surgery is effective as a first-stage procedure for patients with high body mass indexes. Once weight is reduced to a level safe to perform gastric bypass or lap band surgery, the sleeve gastrectomy can be converted to one of those options. • This surgery reduces the stomach’s capacity but allows it to function normally. Disadvantages: • So
