Sleeve Gastrecomy is a newly utilized weight loss procedure effective by restricting food intake.  This operation is essentially a newer, better version of the vertical banded gastroplasty, a procedure that has been abandoned by virtually all weight loss surgeons, due to its high failure rates and complications. 

General Procedure

This surgical procedure is relatively simple and straightforward. The stomach is surgically reduced in size to a long narrow, tube like pouch approximating between 2-4 ounces in size. The remaining two-thirds of the stomach is removed from the abdomen; therefore, making this procedure irreversible. No intestinal bypass is performed as seen with the RYGB. Originally, this procedure was developed for high risk patients or super obese patients with the intention of performing another surgery at a later date although most patients have not required a second operation. If a secondary procedure is however indicated a Biliopancreatic Diversion (BPD) or Roux en Y gastric bypass (RYBG) may be performed.  Studies indicate that with sleeve gastrectomy alone an average excess body weight of 55 percent is achieve in a 6-12 month time interval.

Advantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy:

• No Dumping Syndrome 

• Less Hunger  

• Lower Risk and Protein and Vitamin Deficiency 

• No Intestinal Tract Bypass Involved 

• Less Invasive than RYGB  

• Fewer Food Restrictions 

• Appropriate Weight Loss Procedure for High Risk Patients 

• Can be Utilized as a Staged Procedure for High Risk Patient and Can be Converted to a RYBG or BPD if an Additional Weight Loss Procedure is indicated

Disadvantages / Risks of Sleeve Gastrectomy:

• Procedure is irreversible 

• No Long Term Scientific Studies  

• Not Recognized and Covered by all Insurance Companies 

• Increase Rate of Nausea and Vomiting Perioperatively 

• Risk of Leak at Staple Line 

• Weight Regain Requiring Second Operation 

• No Evidence of Metabolic Disease Improvement