Sleeve Gastrectomy

is a new procedure that induces weight loss by restricting food intake. With this procedure, the surgeon removes approximately 60 percent of the stomach laparoscopically so that the stomach takes the shape of a tube or "sleeve." This procedure is usually performed on superobese or high risk patients.

How it Works
This procedure generates weight loss soley through gastric restriction (reduced stomach volume). The stomach is restricted by dividing it vertically and removing more than 85% of it. This part of the procedure is not reversible. The stomach that remains is shaped like a banana and measures from 2-5 ounces (60-150cc) depending on the surgeon performing the procedure. The nerves to the stomach and the outlet valve (pylorus) remain intact with the idea of preserving the functions of the stomach while reducing the volume. By comparison, in a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the stomach is divided, not removed, and the pylorus is excluded. The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass stomach can be reconnected (reversed) if necessary. Note that there is no intestinal bypass with this procedure, only stomach reduction.

Expected Weight Loss
This combined approach has tremendously decreased the risk of weight loss surgery for specific groups of patients, even when the risk of the two surgeries is added. Most patients can expect to lose 30 to 50% of their excess body weight over a 6 - 12 month period with the sleeve gastrectomy alone.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there can be complications. This list can include:

Deep vein thrombophlebitis 0.5%

Non-fatal pulmonary embolus 0.5%

Pneumonia 0.2%

Acute respiratory distress syndrome 0.25%

Splenectomy 0.5%

Gastric leak and fistula 1.0%

Postoperative bleeding 0.5%

Small bowel obstruction 0.0%

Death 0.25%

Post-Op Dietary Plan for Vertical Gastrectomy Weight-Loss Surgery Patients

As with all surgical weight-loss programs, it is imperative that VG patients adhere to a strict postoperative diet. Patients must stick to a liquid-based diet for 2 weeks after surgery; 4-6 weeks after the operation, patients graduate to a 600-800 calorie/ day solid diet. Once goal weight is achieved, usually 1-2 years after surgery, most patients can consume about 1000-1200 calories per day.

Long-Term Weight-Loss Results

On average, patients who undergo Vertical Gastrectomy surgery experience a 60-80% loss of excess weight.