Gastric Sleeve SURGERY (Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy)
Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve Surgery for Weight Loss Surgery
A Gastric Sleeve (Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy) is a surgical weight loss procedure that presents as an alternative to gastric band (Lap band) at our clinic at Sunnybank Obesity Centre. Unlike the gastric bypass the procedure does not involve any re-routing of the intestinal tract, which can result in malabsorption and malnutrition complications.
Popularity regarding the Gastric Sleeve is growing due to its effectiveness with weight loss in patients who are very overweight (BMI >45) or advised against gastric banding or gastric bypass because of potential risks or complications.
A Gastric Sleeve is often also recommended as an option to individuals who are limited logistically from attending regular follow-up visits for band adjustments or those who would prefer to undergo a permanent (irreversible) procedure and not be obligated to indefinite maintenance issues following surgery.
In the Gastric Sleeve procedure roughly three quarters of the stomach is surgically removed leaving a slender tubular like stomach that maintains its direct connection with the oesophagus and small intestine.
The portion of the stomach that is surgically removed is discarded, drastically reducing the volume of the stomach, which results in early satiety and fullness when eating a meal.
Advantages of a Gastric Sleeve
Volume of the stomach is reduced yet all intestinal connections are maintained
Limited concerns regarding nutritional deficiencies following surgery
Does not result in dumping syndrome (as with gastric bypass)
Single stage process means no further surgery is needed to complete the procedure
Advantages of Gastric Sleeve Compared to Gastric Banding (Lap Band)
Does not require implantation of a foreign body
Does not require follow up visits for adjustments
Most foods are well tolerated and do not get stuck, as they sometimes do with the band
Difficult to overeat high calorie liquids or soft foods because of limited stomach capacity
Hunger stimulating hormone Ghrelin is removed, which decreases appetite
General Positives Regarding the Gastric Sleeve
Procedure can be done laparoscopically (minimally invasive) in almost all patients
Considered a safer procedure for high risk or morbidly obese patients (BMI>45)
Weight loss is initially quite rapid and early results overall appear to be very good
An alternative option for those who live in remote areas or travel extensively
