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The sleeve gastrectomy is an operation in which the left side of the stomach is surgically removed. This results in a new stomach which is roughly the size and shape of a banana. Since this operation does not involve any "rerouting" or reconnecting of the intestines, it is a simpler operation than the gastric bypass or the duodenal switch. Unlike the LAP-BAND® procedure, the sleeve gastrectomy does not require the implantation of an artificial device inside the abdomen.
For certain patients, in particular those with a body mass index greater than 60, the sleeve gastrectomy may be the first part of a 2-stage operation. The 2-stage operation may have substantial advantages for specific individuals.
What Are the Advantages of the "Sleeve?"
The sleeve gastrectomy has a number of advantages over other bariatric procedures:
- It does not require disconnecting or reconnecting the intestines
- It is a technically simpler operation than the gastric bypass or the duodenal switch
- It may be a safer operation for patients with a body mass index (BMI) more than 60.
- It may be used as the first stage of a 2-stage operation. (See below)
What is a 2-Stage Operation?
Certain patients may have a body shape that makes their surgery more technically difficult. For example, patients with a BMI over 60 -- particularly those who carry their weight in their belly area -- may be at increased risk for bariatric surgery. If you fall into this category, you may benefit from a 2-Stage bariatric surgery.
In the staged approach, a multi-step operation like the gastric bypass or the duodenal switch is broken down into 2 simpler and safer operations. In the first stage, a sleeve gastrectomy is performed. This allows to lose 80 to 100 pounds or more, which will make the second part of the operation substantially safer.
The second stage operation is usually performed 8 to 12 months after the first. The "sleeve" stomach is converted into a formal gastric bypass or duodenal switch. This will permit additional weight loss and will provide a much more permanent result than sleeve gastrectomy alone.
Both stages of the surgery can be performed laparoscopically, giving the advantage of shorter recovery, shorter incisions, fewer incision-related problems and less pain.
Are There Any Disadvantages?
The sleeve may be an excellent option for you if your BMI is over 60, or if you have medical problems that would put you at excessive risk for a gastric bypass or duodenal switch (BPD-DS). However, the sleeve is usually considered to be a temporary treatment for obesity, until the second stage of the surgery is performed. Some people perceive the need for 2 separate operations as a disadvantage, despite the health benefits.
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