Procedures

The gastric sleeve procedure, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, involves removing about 80% of the stomach, resulting in a tubular or sleeve-like structure. This newly formed stomach connects the esophagus to the small intestine, significantly reducing its capacity. This procedure also removes the portion of the stomach that produces hunger-stimulating hormones, helping patients feel full more quickly and leading to effective weight loss. 

How the Procedure Works:

• Type of Procedure: This is a restrictive weight-loss surgery with some metabolic effects, performed laparoscopically.
• Capacity Reduction: The stomach’s size is reduced to about one-third of its original capacity, which helps patients eat less and feel satisfied sooner.
• Surgical Approach: The laparoscopic method minimizes incisions and promotes faster recovery.

Applications

The gastric sleeve is utilized in two primary ways:

1. As a standalone procedure, potentially resulting in up to 70% excess weight loss.

2. As an initial step before more complex surgeries like gastric bypass. For severely obese patients at high surgical risk, the gastric sleeve may be performed first, followed by gastric bypass 12-18 months later.