The sleeve gastrectomy is a laparoscopic surgical procedure for permanently removing a large portion of the stomach. It does not change the digestive process, so it does not require any dietary intake restrictions, avoids the “dumping syndrome” and minimizes the complications related to bypassing the stomach and intestines, such as: intestinal obstruction (blockage), anemia, osteoporosis, protein deficiency and vitamin deficiency, which represent the disadvantages of a gastric bypass procedure. To further aid in weight loss, sleeve gastrectomy eliminates the portion of the stomach that produces the hormones that stimulate hunger (Ghrelin).
In general, weight loss surgery has proven to be the most effective and long-lasting treatment for morbid obesity. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), bariatric surgery is the only proven weight loss method for those suffering from morbid obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more, or a BMI between 35-39 with co-morbid conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, etc.
Sleeve gastrectomy has helped many people reduce the severity of or eliminate co-morbidities (see below), including:
Lower blood pressure
Lower cholesterol levels
Improved cardiovascular health
Improved blood glucose (blood sugar) levels, potentially preventing type 2 diabetes
Lessened or eliminated asthma attacks
Improved sleep, lessened potential for sleep apnea and snoring
Relief from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and heartburn
Improved bladder control
Comfort and relief from lower back pain, inflammation and degenerative diseases
Improved metabolic health
For women, lessened menstrual dysfunction and improved fertility health
Relief from migraine headaches and depression
Enhanced quality of life and longevity
Resolved depression
Unlike the LAP-BAND®, the sleeve gastrectomy does not need to be adjusted and because of this it requires less follow-up care.
Potential Risks with Sleeve Gastrectomy
As is the case with all types of surgeries, weight loss surgery also involves risks. Complications from bariatric surgery include
Wound infections
Abdominal bleeding
Staple/suture leakage
Respiratory failure
Pulmonary problems or other surgery-related issues
These complications occur in less than five percent of the procedures performed. Additionally, the average mortality rate for patients undergoing bariatric surgery is less than one percent and continues to decline. Longer-term negative effects of bariatric surgery can include such issues as temporary hair thinning and symptomatic gallstones.
Although bariatric surgery, including vertical sleeve gastrectomy, involves a small percentage of risks, the health risks associated with remaining obese often far outweigh the potential risks of any surgical procedure.
You can count on the health care professionals at Florida Surgical Weight Loss Specialists to guide and support you throughout every stage of your weight loss journey. Take the first step to a healthier and happier you by contacting us today.