What is Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Sleeve gastrectomy is a type of bariatric surgery designed to reduce stomach size, helping patients with obesity achieve significant weight loss. The procedure involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a narrow, sleeve-like tube that restricts the amount of food a patient can consume, thereby reducing hunger levels.
Benefits of Sleeve Gastrectomy
Most patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy experience effective weight loss without significant complications. However, patient selection and a long-term weight management plan are critical to success.
So, what are the key advantages of sleeve gastrectomy compared to other bariatric procedures?
- Reduced Stomach Capacity: By limiting the stomach’s capacity, patients feel fuller faster and can more easily maintain a low-calorie diet, leading to significant weight loss (up to 60-70% of excess weight within a year).
- Less Invasive Procedure: Unlike some other bariatric surgeries, sleeve gastrectomy does not involve anastomoses (connections between organs), resulting in shorter recovery times and fewer postoperative risks.
- Improvement in Health Conditions: Sleeve gastrectomy has been shown to improve or even resolve various obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Weight loss can improve mobility, self-esteem, and confidence, while reducing the risk of social isolation.
Potential Complications of Sleeve Gastrectomy
As with any surgical procedure, patients should be aware of potential risks associated with sleeve gastrectomy:
- Surgical Complications: These include risks related to anesthesia, infection, bleeding, or damage to surrounding tissues.
- Stomach Stenosis: The gastric sleeve may narrow, causing difficulties in eating and digestion.
- Dumping Syndrome: This occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A smaller stomach can lead to nutrient deficiencies. It is essential for patients to maintain a suitable diet and continue with vitamin and mineral supplements.
Interested in Learning More About Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery?
Schedule an informational appointment with Dr. Marco Anselmino, Specialist in Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery.
