Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy is a newer restrictive procedure in which approximately 90% of the stomach is removed, leaving a tubular sleeve between the esophagus and the first portion of the small intestine. The remaining stomach holds only a small amount of food and drink, providing a long-lasting feeling of fullness that leads to profound weight loss. Advantages of this type of the sleeve gastrectomy include:

• No implanted device, so no risk for erosion or device-related infection
• No need for adjustments
• No malabsorption, so the long-term risk of nutritional deficiency is lower
• A simpler surgery than gastric bypass
• Weight loss is reliable and relatively rapid, an average of 55-65% of excess body weight over the first 18 months
• It may be the ideal choice for patients with a BMI above 60, as it can be used as a first step before a bypass or other procedure