Sleeve Gastrectomy Procedure
Overview
Sleeve gastrectomy, or gastric sleeve surgery, is a type of bariatric procedure that reduces stomach size by about 80%, creating a tube- or banana-shaped stomach. This limits how much food it can hold at once.
Surgeons usually perform this procedure laparoscopically using special tools inserted through small cuts in the belly. The smaller stomach acts as a restrictive measure, helping patients eat less and feel full sooner.
The surgery also causes hormonal changes. For example, it can lower levels of ghrelin, a hormone that triggers hunger. Other weight loss surgeries include gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y), adjustable gastric banding, and duodenal switch.
Table: Common Weight Loss Surgeries
| Surgery Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|
| Sleeve Gastrectomy | Removes most of the stomach |
| Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass | Reroutes digestive tract |
| Adjustable Gastric Banding | Uses a silicone band |
| Duodenal Switch | Combines restriction/malabsorption |
Possible Dangers
People who have sleeve gastrectomy may face several health risks. Common problems after surgery include excess bleeding, infection, or blood clots. Vomiting or nausea can also occur, especially if food moves too quickly into the small intestine, sometimes called dumping syndrome.
Other possible problems are nutrient shortages and low blood sugar. Breathing trouble, stomach leaks, or blockages can also occur. These risks may happen soon after surgery or later on.
Getting Ready for Surgery
Before the surgery, patients may need to start a light exercise plan and avoid using tobacco. Patients should follow rules about what to eat or drink and check which medicines are allowed. Many people will need vitamin and mineral supplements as part of the preparation. Making a simple checklist or table can help:
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Exercise | Begin approved routine. |
| Diet Changes | Follow liquid diet rules. |
| Medicines | Confirm with doctor. |
| Supplements | Take as recommended. |
| Home Preparation | Plan for support. |
What You Can Expect
What Happens in Surgery
Surgeons usually perform sleeve gastrectomy with a few small cuts in the upper belly using a camera and special tools. The patient receives general anesthesia and sleeps through the process.
The surgeon shapes the stomach into a narrow tube, removes the outer curve, and leaves a smaller, banana-shaped section. This limits how much food the stomach can hold, making it easier to eat less.
The procedure may take between 1 and 2 hours. After finishing the operation, the medical team moves the patient to a recovery area and monitors progress, watching for any problems.
| Surgical Method | Usually laparoscopic (small cuts) |
|---|---|
| Anesthesia | General (patient is asleep) |
| Hospital Stay | Typically 1-2 nights |
What to Expect After Surgery
After surgery, patients must change eating habits to help the stomach heal and support recovery. At first, only sugar-free, non-carbonated liquids are allowed for about one week.
In the next three weeks, patients follow a pureed food diet. Around four weeks after surgery, soft and then regular foods are slowly added. The smaller stomach means people fill up faster and eat less than before.
Also, the part of the stomach that produces the hunger hormone is removed, which can reduce appetite. Patients need to take daily multivitamins (twice a day), a calcium supplement (once a day), and a monthly vitamin B-12 shot.
Regular checkups are necessary, including blood tests and other health checks over the first several months. Some side effects may occur as the body adjusts to rapid weight loss, especially during the first 3 to 6 months. These may include:
- Tiredness or body aches
- Hair thinning or loss
- Dry skin
- Feeling colder than usual
- Changes in mood
Note: Sleeve gastrectomy does not change the intestines or how the body absorbs food, but it limits the amount that can be eaten at one time. Ongoing support from healthcare providers is important for long-term success.
Outcomes
Some people may lose less weight than expected or regain weight later, often due to poor eating habits or low physical activity. Consuming high-calorie snacks and skipping exercise commonly cause a return of weight.
Common Causes of Weight Regain
- Eating calorie-rich foods often
- Not exercising regularly
- Missing checkups with the healthcare team
- Not maintaining new habits over time
| Factor | May Cause Weight Regain? |
|---|---|
| High-calorie snacks | โ๏ธ |
| Irregular exercise | โ๏ธ |
| Skipped checkups | โ๏ธ |
| Lifestyle changes kept | โ๏ธ |
People need to keep healthy habits and attend follow-up visits so they and their healthcare team can track progress. See a doctor right away if weight loss slows or stops. Make healthy dietary choices and stay active to help prevent unwanted weight regain after the surgery.
