Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
The Gastric Sleeve is a popular bariatric operation. It is reported that patients lose between 60-70% of their excess weight.
The operation is done under general anaesthesia and is performed using the keyhole approach using three or four small incisions.
The operation involves around 80% of the patient's left portion of the stomach being removed. What is left is a 'banana' shaped stomach. The nerve supply to the stomach is preserved so the food arrival into the duodenum (first part of the small bowel) will be
slow (although faster than before the operation) and gradually leading to prolonged satiety, early fullness. Dumping syndrome is a rare side effect after a sleeve gastrectomy (a common side effect after a gastric bypass).
Another mechanism of weight loss results from changes in a gut hormone called 'Ghrelin' which is secreted in the fundus of the stomach which has now been removed. The reduction in this hormone causes a reduction in appetite so the patient feels less hungry.
With these two mechanisms working together most patients successfully lose up to 70% of their excess weight.
Like all weight loss surgery procedures, the Sleeve Gastrectomy is a tool. Used correctly and following the advice given by the OxBariatric team, you can expect to achieve a weight loss of between 60-70% of your excess body weight.
You will need to make lifestyle changes to work with the procedure. The more you are willing to change, the better the results you can expect.
What are the advantages of having a Sleeve Gastrectomy?
You will feel less hungry as you no longer have Ghrelin
The sleeve gastrectomy is very gentle to your bowel function as the passage of the food bolus follows the normal route. For patients with IBS the sleeve gastrectomy is a very good option as it doesn’t exacerbate the IBS symptoms
There is no foreign body implanted and there is no need for any adjustments (Gastric Band/intra-Gastric Balloon)
Acid reflux is a common side effect after the sleeve gastrectomy as up to 20% of patients will develop new heartburn. Rarely a sleeve needs to be converted to a Roux Y gastric by-pass because of reflux symptoms
Improves greater diabetic control
You can lose up to 70% of your excess body weight.
Think about the following prior to the procedure
Get active - walking a little further each day will help you to prepare for surgery and will help you feel positive. Try to aim for short walks totalling 30 minutes.
Eat healthier - think about the food you are consuming. Reducing your calorie intake and drinking more water will help.
Think about your health - advise your GP you are thinking of this procedure. Keep appointments with your physicians.
Stop smoking - this is vital if you are thinking of having the operation. Smoking can have detrimental effects on not only your health but the operation.
Stop drinking alcohol - stop at least 2 weeks prior to the operation. Not only will it help your overall calorie control but it will help reduce cravings.
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