Sleeve Gastrectomy

The Sleeve Gastrectomy (also known as Gastric Sleeve surgery) is sometimes the best solution for those who are concerned about the potential long-term side effects of a Gastric Bypass. Gastric Sleeve involves resecting the portion of the stomach responsible for making the hormone grehlin, which is a major contributing hormone to feeling hunger. Most sleeve gastrectomy patients have a markedly diminished appetite immediately after surgery. People who need to take anti-inflammatory medications may want to consider this. Typically, these medications need to be avoided after a Gastric Bypass because the risk of developing ulcers from these medications may increase.

Gastric Sleeve surgery generates weight loss solely through gastric restriction (reduced stomach volume). The stomach is restricted by dividing it vertically. This part of the procedure is not reversible. The stomach that remains is shaped like a banana. The nerves to the stomach and the outlet valve (pylorus) remain intact with the idea of preserving the functions of the stomach while reducing the volume. By comparison, in a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the stomach is divided, not removed, and the pylorus is excluded.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Facts: Lower risk than Gastric Bypass. Higher risk than LAP-BAND/REALIZE Band. Long- and short-term weight loss between Band and Bypass. No dumping syndrome. No need for Band fills.