Commonly referred to the gastric sleeve procedure, the vertical sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most common weight loss surgeries. The primary purpose of this type of weight loss surgery is to create a smaller stomach so that patients will feel full after eating small meals. It may be recommended for:
Although vertical sleeve gastrectomy is not a quick solution to obesity, the surgery has been shown to drastically change patients’ lives. In order to ensure optimal results, the patient must commit to a positive change in lifestyle that consists of engaging in regular exercise and consuming portion-controlled meals. Similarly, the people who experience the most success are those who attend regular doctor appointments, follow the recommended eating plan, and develop realistic weight loss goals. The vertical sleeve gastrectomy is typically performed in a hospital or surgery center.
To learn more about this surgical procedure, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
One of the primary benefits of vertical sleeve gastrectomy is that the procedure might be able to improve many medical conditions including high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, asthma, arthritis, high cholesterol, type II diabetes, and gastroesophageal disease. The procedure may also increase mobility, which ultimately enables patients to easily complete everyday activities. Since vertical sleeve gastrectomy reduces the size of the stomach, this weight loss treatment can train patients to consume less food on a regular basis. Another benefit of the procedure is that patients can continue to lose weight two to three years after undergoing the procedure.
When performed properly, a vertical sleeve gastrectomy will not result in any leaks. Because these procedures are performed with the most advanced technology, there is a small chance of complication.
Before undergoing the vertical sleeve gastrectomy, a doctor may recommend a comprehensive physical exam, counseling, blood tests, regular doctor appointments, and pre-surgery classes, A doctor may also advise patients to stop smoking at least several weeks before the operation to reduce the risk of problems and promote optimal recovery. Patients should inform the provider if they are planning to get pregnant as well as their current over-the-counter medications such as vitamins, herbs, and other supplements.
During the week before the surgery, the patient may be asked to avoid taking certain medications that cause the blood to clot. On the day of the surgery, patients should ensure that they follow the specific instructions concerning eating and drinking, take the recommended drugs, and arrive at the hospital on time.
The exact instructions that you will need to follow prior to your weight loss surgery will depend on many factors, including your health history. It is very important to follow these instructions carefully to give yourself the best chance at a safe procedure and long term results after the procedure is finished.
One of the first steps in the vertical sleeve gastrectomy procedure is when the medical team administers the general anesthesia before surgery. General anesthesia is a form of medicine that ensures that patients stay asleep and unaware throughout the operation. Afterwards, the surgeon creates two to five small cuts in the belly to remove 85 percent of the area, which is most of the stomach. The remaining sections of the stomach are joined together with the use of surgical staples. The final result is a long vertical tube that resembles a banana-shaped stomach.
Unlike many other weight loss operations, the surgery does not consist of altering the shape of the sphincter muscles that allow food to enter or leave the stomach. Instead, the surgeon will ensure that the sphincter muscles remain at the top and the bottom of the stomach. This new stomach shape has a significant effect on gut hormones; therefore, patients are likely to feel less hungry and stay fuller longer.
Throughout the operation, the surgeon will use a tiny camera or a laparoscope to view the inside of the stomach. This camera is connected to a video monitor in the operating room to promote a great view of the belly. The approximate length of the vertical sleeve gastrectomy is 60 to 90 minutes, but this can vary. Once the operation is completed, the procedure cannot be reversed.
Since most weight loss surgeries may increase the risk of gallstones, a surgeon may also recommend that a patient undergo cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder. A cholecystectomy may be performed before or after the vertical sleeve gastrectomy.
Your doctor will give you a better idea of what you can expect from your procedure.
Most patients will be able to return home two days after the vertical sleeve gastrectomy operation. While the patient should be able to consume clear liquids on the day after surgery, the doctor will probably recommend a pureed diet by the time they leave the hospital. As the patient consumes solid food, the small pouch will begin to fill quickly. As a result, most patients will feel full after consuming small meals. In order to avoid stretching the remaining stomach, the medical team such as the nurse, dietitian, and surgeon can recommend the perfect diet for a person’s unique preferences. The doctor can also send the patient home with pain medication to avoid any discomfort after the operation.
The steps that you need to take during your recovery will vary and be based on your specific lifestyle and medical needs. It is very important to follow these steps from your doctor carefully in order to ensure that you see the best possible results.
To learn more about the vertical sleeve gastrectomy, along with other weight loss surgery options, contact our office today for a consultation. Your doctor can work with you to determine the best options for weight loss based on your unique situation, and the realistic expectations that you can have leading up to the procedure.
