What is The Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
The Gastric Sleeve or Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery is a restrictive type of unbanded procedure that permanently reduces the size of the stomach, thereby limiting food intake as well as the sensation of hunger by lowering hormone production.
This procedure does not involve intestinal rerouting or malabsorption and uses only the patient’s own natural tissues.
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Gastric sleeve is performed laparoscopically and removes approximately 80 percent of the patient’s stomach along the greater curvature, leaving only a long lesser curve-based gastric conduit or “sleeve”. The small intestine is left intact. The sleeve holds only a small amount of food, which helps reduce the caloric intake and promotes rapid weight loss.
The removed portion of the stomach is where the hunger-stimulating hormone ghrelin is produced, therefore, the surgery reduces feelings of hunger significantly.
As the excess pounds melt away, most gastric sleeve patients also notice an improvement in their overall health and comorbidities, such as lower cholesterol levels, improved heart health, reduced sleep apnea, reduced back pain and elimination of type 2 diabetes.
Why Choose Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
You can expect to lose on average more than 60% of excess body weight at one year.
The smaller stomach still functions normally, so you can tolerate most foods, just in smaller amounts
Can later be converted to a gastric bypass or duodenal switch, if desired
Eliminates the portion of the stomach that produces hormones that stimulate hunger (ghrelin), so your appetite often lessens
Less acid secretion, so less chance of an ulcer
Because the intestine remains intact, there is no chance of intestinal obstruction (blockage)
Typically there are minimal long term complications.
This surgery can be the first stage to a gastric bypass or duodenal switch for individuals who are considered high risk.
Improves or eliminates cholesterol levels, heart health, sleep apnea, back pain and type 2 diabetes*
*Individual results vary, having weight loss surgery does not guarantee that health problems will be resolved.
Gastric Sleeve Disadvantages*:
Not reversible, because part of the stomach is removed
No dumping syndrome (discomfort from eating foods rich in carbs). The body still tolerates carb-rich and high-fat foods, which can slow weight loss
You may experience nausea and vomiting if you overeat which can result in pain and/or stretching of the stomach.
Patients who have problems with acid reflux before surgery may have increased symptoms after surgery.
*Dr. del Pino and his team will work with you to minimize these risks through continual patient observation, and diet and exercise management.
What is the Gastric Sleeve Procedure?
¿Qué es la manga gástrica o sleeve?
Gastric Sleeve Patient Testimonials