What is a Gastric Sleeve?
The Sleeve Gastrectomy, also known as a Gastric Sleeve, is a “restrictive” procedure that limits the amount of food you can eat. A thin vertical sleeve of stomach is created using a surgical stapler.
This sleeve will typically hold between 50-150ml, which is about the size of a banana (or 1/10th of a normal stomach). The rest of the stomach is removed.
This can either be completed Laparoscopically or Robotically.
The stomach sleeve restricts the amount of food you can eat and makes you feel full with a small meal. It is thought that operation also reduces hunger by reducing the levels of hunger hormones (Ghrelin).
Weight loss is very good – generally more than 60% of excess weight.
Risks of Surgery
The main risk of this surgery is leakage from the staple line. Although not common (1-2%), it can be a serious complication.
Reflux (heartburn / “indigestion”) is a common side effect after surgery and may require medication. This usually settles after 6 months.
Advantages
- Limits the amount of food that is eaten at a meal
- No post-operative adjustments are required
- 60-70 % of excess weight loss
Disadvantages
- Irreversible changes to anatomy
The first image shows the stomach being prepped for surgery. The second images shows the stomach once a portion has been removed and the “Sleeve” has been formed.
Please understand that the information that is provided on this website is to serve as a guide only. This does, by no means, negate or alter the need for a full individual consultation and medical assessment.