Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG), also known as gastric sleeve surgery, bariatric sleeve surgery or vertical gastrectomy, involves shrinking the size of the stomach to help an individual lose weight by limiting their calorie intake. During a sleeve gastrectomy around 80% of the lower stomach is removed creating a long, tubular structure, which will limit food intake. 

The mechanisms of weight loss and improvement in co-morbidities seen after SG might be related to: 

• Gastric restriction - restricting the amount of food you can eat  
• Hormonal changes related to gastric resection, such as the GLP-1 hormone which reduces appetite and regulates glucose metabolism 
• Gastric emptying, with food passing through the stomach faster  

In comparison to gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, which primarily restricts food intake rather than altering the digestive pathway, does not predispose individuals to marginal ulcers, vitamin deficiencies, dumping syndrome or malabsorption. Endoscopy can still be used as a diagnostic technique, as the remaining stomach and first portion of the intestine are still accessible. 

1. The surgeon creates several small incisions in the abdominal area to insert surgical tools and a camera. 
2. A measuring device known as a bougie (specialized tube) is placed into the stomach to determine the appropriate length of the stomach that should remain. This flexible tube helps the surgeon maintain a consistent size for the newly formed stomach sleeve. 
3. A surgical stapler will be used to divide the stomach into two and seal it in between. 
4. The surgeon removes the larger portion of the stomach and closes the incision. 
5. The surgical instruments are removed. The incisions are stitched closed. 

After surgery, patients are brought to the recovery area, where they are closely monitored. The doctor will provide them with post-operative care that includes instructions on managing pain, watching out for complications and consuming foods. Patients will also need to attend follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor their progress. Nutritional counseling and lifestyle adjustments may also be part of postoperative care.

** The above data was obtained from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) July 2024 risk adjusted Semi-Annual Report (SAR) provided to Carondelet St. Mary’s Hospital (CSM) using surgical data CSM supplied to the MBSAQIP registry. The July 2024 report is reflective of the full, prior calendar year. 

Weight loss surgery is recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 35, regardless of presence, absence, or severity of co-morbidities. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding with the Lap Band® is also FDA-approved for weight loss surgery in people with a BMI of 30 to 35 who have at least one obesity¬related condition. Weight loss surgery is considered safe, but like many types of surgery, it does have risks. Consult with your physician about the risks and benefits of weight loss surgery. These testimonials reflect results achieved by these patients. As each case must be independently evaluated and managed, actual weight loss will vary.