Gastric Sleeve Plication

Gastric Sleeve Plication is one of the newest of bariatric procedures, ideal for patients needing to lose between 50 and 100 pounds.  It is a gastric sleeve procedure with many significant advantages over equivalent weight loss surgeries which makes it a popular choice. The results are dramatic with considerably more immediate weight loss effects. It is also a quicker procedure, carries fewer risks, less restrictive on post-procedural diet and is fully reversible.

What Is The Procedure?

Gastric Sleeve Plication (GSP) is a restrictive procedure similar to conventional Sleeve Gastrectomy or Gastric Sleeve Surgery.  However unlike in Gastric Sleeve Surgery where typically 85 percent is removed and reshaped, in GSP there is no removal of any portion of the stomach. In GSP, using non-absorbable stitches, the size of the stomach is reduced along its greater curvature.  Since there is no removal of any part of the stomach nor is there any addition of any devices or foreign implants, dietary restrictions after surgery are minimal. A patient is advised to increase the liquid intake for the first two to three weeks after surgery then gradually move to normal solid foods without any specific restrictions. With this surgical procedure there is no malabsorption of nutrients unlike other forms of bariatric weight loss surgeries.

What Are The Risks Involved?

Since there is no resection of the stomach and no foreign implants, the risks are significantly minimized. There are no complications of leakage or bleeding after GSP. If the patient overeats the only outcome is discomfort.  However a point to consider is that this procedure is not yet FDA approved. Also, since Sleeve Plication is a relatively new procedure, concrete data about the long-term effects of Gastric Sleeve Plication is limited.

Is The Procedure Reversible?

Indeed it is, and since no portion of the intestine has been removed, there are no side effects or compromise in normal absorption capabilities of the stomach.

A Summary Of The Advantages of Gastric Sleeve Plication

  • It is an ambulatory procedure which requires no more than 2 to 3 days of hospitalization.
  • There are fewer risks from post-operative surgery when compared with other bariatric surgery procedures.
  • It entails no resection of the stomach. There is no addition of foreign bodies like bands or staples, and no adjustments or fills.
  • There are virtually no post-operative dietary restrictions and no food intolerance.
  • It is reversible without any side effects.
  • It is arguably the cheapest kind of weight loss surgery at this point in time.
  • The results are quick, where dramatic weight reduction can be expected from between 6 and 12 months after surgery.

Vertical Banded Gastroplasty Reversal

Vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) or stomach stapling is a restrictive weight loss surgery. It works by fixing a plastic band or ring at the outlet of the stomach pouch to restrict the amount of food passing into the stomach. It gives the patient a feeling of fullness with a restricted amount of food. VBG reversal is the removal of the plastic band or ring in patients who have experienced post-procedure complications.

What are the VBG complications which necessitate reversal?

The main problem in 88 percent of the patients who experienced complications after Vertical Banded Gastroplasty Surgery was vomiting and nausea, followed by reflux in 65 percent of the cases. 38 percent required endoscopic dilation for strictures while 7 percent experienced upper gastrointestinal bleeding. This was the result of a study conducted between 1993 and 2004 on 27 patients who successfully underwent Reversing Vertical Banded Gastroplasty.

What is this Reversal Procedure?

The surgeon uses upper endoscopy through one or two punctures in the abdomen. The plastic ring is cut so that the patient can eat normally without experiencing any of the symptoms described before. A small tube is left in the stomach which is removed 3 to 4 weeks later during a follow-up clinical appointment.

How Long Does The Reversal Surgery Take?

The type of Bariatric Surgery procedure does not take very long but you might have to spend the night in the hospital. This will depend on your reaction to the surgery.

What Is The Recovery Process After Bariatric Surgery?

No restrictions will be put after surgery on physical activity. However, expect to feel a level of discomfort for some time which will restrict you from over-exerting. You will be alright provided you do not strain yourself to the point where it hurts. You should be able to resume normal activities within a few days or weeks at the most. Any pain should subside quickly though you will be prescribed need-based pain medication. You may also be prescribed anti-reflux medication for some time. The stomach tube inserted after the surgery should be clamped to the skin, cleaned and bandaged. The bandage should be changed at least daily till the tube is removed.

What will be the Recommended Post Bariatric Surgery Diet?

You will be advised to stick to liquids and soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes etc., for the first 3 days. After that you can progressively switch to normal food.

What Post Bariatric Surgery Complications is patient likely to encounter?

The tube might trouble you for a few days with redness and irritation. This will go away once the tube is removed. You might experience bouts of nausea as a reaction to the pain killers.

What are the Post Surgery Precautions?

Post-procedure, you will be able to eat many foods which you were unable to tolerate after the gastroplasty. You have to be conscious about what you eat and exercise portion control to retain your weight.

Hypertension In Obese People

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a measurement of the pressure the blood exerts on the inner wall of the arteries. Sufficient studies have irrefutably established that excess body weight and obesity is a major risk factor for hypertension. Overweight people are three times more likely to develop hypertension than those of normal weight. The risk gets higher with increased obesity. Abdominal obesity, where the waist measurement exceeds 40” in men and 35” in women, is one of the primary indicators of whether a person is at risk for hypertension.  

What Is Normal Blood Pressure?

Normal blood pressure is accepted as 120 for the higher reading (systolic) which is a reading of the blood pressure when the heart is pumping, and 80 (diastolic) when the heart is resting. In older people a slightly higher reading is considered acceptable. If a person’s readings exceed what is considered acceptable than he or she is suffering from hypertension.

Why does the Risk Increase In Obese Individuals?

The fatty tissue in obese individuals creates a resistance to blood flow which impacts the heart, making it work harder to pump blood around the body. According to some estimates, each additional pound of fat needs somewhere near a mile of additional blood vessels to transport the required oxygen and nutrients.

What are the Health Risks in Obese Individuals with Hypertension?

Obese individuals at greatest risk are those with abdominal obesity. Excess abdominal fat together with hypertension significantly increases the risk from cardiovascular disease by increasing the bad cholesterol or LDL-cholesterol levels and reducing the good cholesterol of HDL-cholesterol. This leads to atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries which is the cause of heart attacks or myocardial infarction. In addition, obese individuals with hypertension are at risk for Type2 diabetes, chronic renal (kidney) failure and a host of other potentially dangerous conditions.

What is the Treatment for Hypertension in Obese Patients?

The treatment for obesity-related hypertension is the same as that for hypertension caused by other factors. The primary objective is to minimize the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and the mortality and morbidity resulting from it.  The initial approach to treatment for all hypertension cases is non-pharmacological therapy which includes increased physical activity, weight loss and sodium restriction. In obesity-related cases, therapeutic decisions and treatment goals are based on a number of factors driven by the actual level of blood pressure. At present there are no explicit guidelines for pharmacological therapy of the obese. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLB) recommends a combination of dietary modification and increased physical activity for at least 6 months before considering the addition of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drugs for obese individuals with hypertension and other risks for cardiovascular disease. If obesity is believed to be the underlying cause of hypertension then pharmacological treatment could be a logical solution towards lowering blood pressure.

Diabetes In Overweight People

Overweight and obesity are generic descriptions for fat people whose Body Mass Index (BMI) exceeds the normal range. Fat people are at risk for a number of potentially dangerous conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes type 2, gestational diabetes, female infertility, prostate enlargement, cancer and other medical issues. There is a clear link between diabetes and excess weight with roughly 80 percent of people suffering from Type 2 diabetes being overweight.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition where the body does not produce enough of a hormone called insulin, or offers a resistance to insulin. This results in a lack of glucose in the cells and elevated levels of blood sugar with attendant tissue damage. There are three types of diabetes:

  • Diabetes 1 is where the body does not produce insulin.
  • Diabetes 2 is where the body does not produce enough insulin, or where the cells in the body are not able to process insulin properly.
  • Gestational diabetes is a condition which affects some pregnant women during pregnancy. It might be temporary or could lead to diabetes 2.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Diabetes?

General Symptoms of Diabetes are:

  • Increased fatigue
  • Increased hunger
  • Excessive thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Weight fluctuation – most often weight loss
  • Blurry vision
  • Irritability
  • Frequent skin and bacterial infections
  • Protracted wound healing

 

What is the Treatment For Diabetes?

Weight loss will be advised for Diabetic Fat People, especially those with excessive abdominal fat. Weight loss is known to reduce blood sugar levels while a reduced waist level is known to improve glucose tolerance. The patient will be advised more activity for overall physical fitness, but more especially for improved cardiorespiratory fitness which promotes better glucose tolerance. In addition, depending on the severity of the condition, the patient might be prescribed oral medication or injected insulin.

How Can A Fat Person Avoid Diabetes?

The best way of controlling or avoiding diabetes is with lifestyle changes. Moderate exercise of at least 30 minutes a day for 5 days a week is recommended. Dietary therapy is also advised restricting the calorie intake to lose weight or to maintain one’s correct weight. Pharmacotherapy using FDA approved weight loss drugs together with dietary modification and increased exercise is one way to reduce excess weight if other methods do not succeed. In extreme cases an obese person might have to resort to weight loss surgery. However weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, is only prescribed for patients who are clinically severely obese where other non-invasive methods have failed.

In conclusion the best diabetic control is a combination of physical activity, dietary and behavioral therapy toward long-term weight control and to prevent weight gain.

Cheap Bariatric Wheelchairs For Sale

Bariatric wheelchairs are wheelchairs designed for excessively overweight and obese people. They are particularly robust, able to handle more weight than a normal wheelchair. Bariatric wheelchairs are used in hospitals and other facilities as mobility aids for severely obese patients who find it impossible or very difficult to move by themselves. They are also used outside medical facilities to enable these patients to maintain an independent lifestyle.

What Are The Design Considerations of a Bariatric Wheelchair?

There are several factors to consider when buying a bariatric wheelchair:

  • Choose a wheelchair that has been designed to handle more than what the user weighs at present. Generally bariatric wheelchairs are able to handle up to 500 pounds but if the user weighs more than that, a bariatric chair of heavier capacity will be a better choice.
  • The width of the seat should be at least 2 inches wider than the width of the user’s hips when seated. This will ensure the user is able to get in and out easily, and is comfortable in the chair without being bruised by pressure points. Keep a larger width allowance if winter clothing is to be used.
  • Ensure that seat depth, backrest height and armrest height are comfortable and matched to the user’s body shape.
  • If the user suffers from respiratory issues you might have to consider a reclining bariatric wheelchair where the backrest reclines to facilitate easier breathing.

 

How Is A Bariatric Wheelchair Powered?

Manual bariatric wheelchairs move with human power where the wheelchair is propelled by turning the hand rims of large rear wheels. There are many models available including those that can be pushed by a companion. Models include foldable bariatric wheelchairs which can fit into the trunk of a car.

A Powered bariatric wheelchair is the preferred option for obese patient unable to propel themselves. The most common are electrically-driven bariatric wheelchairs which are battery-operated to drive a small electric motor.

Bariatric wheelchairs are usually fitted with solid rubber tires which are more durable and offer less traction resistance. While many accessories are available, the most commonly used are swing-away footrests and optional head rests.

What Is The Cost Of A Bariatric Wheelchair Cost?

Because of their robust construction, Bariatric Wheelchairs Price are more expensive than ordinary wheelchairs. The cost depends on the general weight requirement and other fittings. An entry level model would cost you about $200 for a manually-operated bariatric wheelchair. Expect to pay from $4000 to $8000 for an electrically-operated bariatric wheelchair which would include 2x24Volt batteries which could run for about 15 miles on a single charge.

If you surf the internet you could find used bariatric wheelchairs in perfectly good condition at a significantly lower cost. You can buy a good second-hand bariatric wheelchair at a much cheaper price.

Benefits of Bariatric Wheelchairs

The biggest downturn in morbidly obese people is their inability to leave their home. With lack of mobility, their weight increases steadily becoming a vicious cycle. A bariatric wheelchair provides an obese person opportunity to leave their home. Studies have proved that being outdoors with a greater degree of independence and mobility provides significant physical and psychiatric health benefits.

Affordable Bariatric Rollators For Sale

Bariatric Rollators are mobility aids for severely obese people. They help obese people walk more easily by taking off some of their weight from their feet. Bariatric Rollator Walkers are more robustly built than regular rollators to support a larger body with a heavier weight. They consist of a metal frame with a pair of height-adjustable handlebars which the user holds and which takes much of the user’s weight. The frame is mounted on 4 rubber-tired wheels generally of 8” in diameter designed to offer minimal resistance with maximum traction. Most bariatric rollators are fitted with a padded seat on which the user can rest when fatigued, and a front mounting basket to hold anything the user might want to carry. Bariatric rollators have a pair of loop lock hand brakes which enable the user to stop at will.  The controls are fixed to the handles, offering convenient access when required. The brakes can stop the rollator instantly in an emergency and also to help manoeuver it at turns and bends.

What Are The Benefits Of A Bariatric Rollator?

Bariatric rollators are a boon to obese people enabling them to move around freely and exercise their leg muscles which would otherwise have deteriorated in a wheelchair, or lying in bed all day. Bariatric Rollators allow excessively overweight people to lead more active lives, strengthen their muscles, improve circulation, stimulate metabolism and burn more calories. With a bariatric rollator, an obese person no longer needs to remain sedentary, but can lead an active life improving their physical and psychiatric well-being.

What Do I Look For When Buying A Bariatric Rollator?

The first consideration is obviously the size and the design which should be sturdy and generous enough to suit the user. Most bariatric rollators can support a user weighing 400 pounds, but severely overweight people should use bariatric rollator heavy duty which can support heavier capacities. Other aspects to consider are the size of the wheels which should not be less than 8” in diameter. Smaller diameter wheels are likely to snag in depressions. Check the adjustment of the handlebar height and make sure the user is comfortable with it. It should be at just the right height where the user can push the rollator while placing much of his or her weight on the handles. Most bariatric rollators are foldable for portability. Check out how large it is when folded and how convenient it is to transport.

How Much Would A Bariatric Rollator Walker Cost me?

Expect to pay from $175 onwards for a bariatric rollator of 400 pounds capacity with all the basic essential features. The cost of a 1000 pound capacity rollator is about $450. Used Bariatric Rollators are also available for sale, which are significantly cheaper to buy.

What Are The General User Reviews For Bariatric Walkers For Overweight People?

Practically all users of Bariatric Rollators Walkers have commended these bariatric mobility devices. Most comment on how safe they feel while using one, how much confidence it provides, how it increases their freedom of movement and what a difference it has made to their lifestyle. Bariatric rollers come highly recommended as a mobility solution for obese people.

What Is A Bariatric Liquid Diet

A person who has undergone a bariatric bypass surgery must follow the instructions of the dietician because a small slip can create major problems which may require surgery one more time. In the first few weeks of the surgery the patient is only allowed to have liquids which are clear and can easily pass through a tea strainer. These liquids include clear soups, pure fruit juice, decaf beverages, soy milk, lentil soups and commercial protein shakes. At a later stage the patient can start with soft foods and then resume normal eating habits.

Bariatric Liquid Supplements – Why Are They Important?

Bariatric clear liquid diet are extremely important simply because during a bariatric surgery the body goes through a stressful period and in order to get back to normal, a patient must imbibe nutritionally rich liquids which a normal soup or a juice may not be able to provide. Also, weight loss brings with it a hoard of other problems like hair loss, brittle nails and bad skin. Bariatric liquid supplements contain fiber which is necessary for problems like constipation which most patients do experience. Bariatric liquid supplements also contain the right amount of protein which prevents hair loss and brittle nails. People who have undergone bariatric surgery need good fat in controlled amounts for skin elasticity and suppleness which can only be provided by bariatric liquid supplements. In order for an obese person to lose weight properly without complications it is essential that they include Bariatric liquid protein and calcium in their diet.

Bariatric Liquid Vitamins For Weight Loss Program

Bariatric liquid vitamins are essential for any person who undergoes Bariatric Surgeries mainly because patients have to be on a liquid diet for the first few weeks after surgery. Bariatric liquid vitamins are easier to digest and provide the patient with essential nutrients that they need to lead a healthy life. One of the most important bariatric liquid vitamins is B12 and is manufactured by several companies. Also available are the bariatric liquid multivitamins which contain all the essential vitamins and minerals. Bariatric liquid vitamins are modified to get absorbed quickly and adapt to a small stomach specifically for patients who have undergone surgery.  Vitamins in liquid form can be easily swallowed and are almost completely absorbed by the body. Making sure that a patient gets all he need in terms of protein, water and vitamins is the most important aspect of post bariatric surgery care.

How To Observe Good Bariatric Diet Plan

The Importance Of Good Bariatric Diet

A bariatric bypass surgery is a surgical procedure in which the size of the stomach is reduced and also a part of the intestine is bypassed so that a limited amount of nutrients is absorbed into the blood. The Bariatric bypass surgery is meant for those people who are morbidly obese and cannot exercise due to their obesity. It is also meant for people who lack the motivation to lose weight through regular exercise and diet control and are having unusual obesity related problems. The bariatric bypass surgery in most cases is safe and is being performed world over. The bariatric bypass surgery procedure typically lasts for about 4 hours and requires only a day’s stay in the hospital with minimal risk and pain.

Pre Surgery Bariatric Diet– What you must know

A Pre surgery bariatric diet requires for a person to change his mindset completely. Most people will want to gorge on their favorite treats before they go in for surgery but this can be a very bad thing. A surgery is a traumatic process to the body and your body needs all the nutrients and the vitamins to withstand such a procedure. There are 3 simple things one can remember for a Pre surgery Bariatric Diet Plan or Menu– Reduce carbohydrates completely, increase intake of protein and incorporate as much fluid into your diet as possible. Information regarding what to eat and what vitamins to take as part of a pre surgery bariatric diet will most likely be provided by the doctor. When it comes to pre surgery bariatric diet, more protein and less carbohydrates is essential because this kind of a diet will aid in healing after surgery, significantly reduce bleeding during surgery and will also allow for the liver to remain normal in size so that it does not come in the way of the surgeon while he is performing surgery.

Post surgery bariatric diet– Dos and don’ts

A Post surgery bariatric diet has stages, the first stage being for about 15-20 days where you will only be allowed to consume liquids. For a post surgery bariatric diet it is recommended that patients have at least 6-8 glasses of water each day at regular intervals of an hour or so. At this stage, dehydration is the prime concern and therefore adequate water intake is important. The liquids consumed have to be high in protein and low on calories and caffeine. The next stage is soft food for about 2 months. Soft foods should be rich in protein and low in fat like scrambled eggs, cottage cheese, lentil soups and ground meat. And finally you can slowly return to eating normal solid foods. At this point, you may return to normal eating but in limited amounts as now the stomach is smaller. Whole nutritional food must take the place of empty calorie laden junk. Depending on the constituency of a person’s body, age, deficiencies and illnesses he will have to take certain vitamin and mineral supplements namely A,D, E and K as part of the post surgery bariatric diet. Most patients will also require vitamin B12 and Iron.

Intragastric Balloon Procedure And Benefits Explained

The Endoscopic Intragastric Balloon Protocol is a non-surgical obesity technique. Like other obesity protocols, behavior modification and a supervised diet are an integral part of this weight management program. This is a short-term weight-reduction therapy to be followed for typically six months at the most. It involves placing a silicon balloon endoscopically through the mouth and the oesophagus in the stomach. The balloon occupies a part of the stomach to create a feeling of fullness towards portion control. It also delays the movement of food out of the stomach and in doing so extends the feeling of satiation.

Is the Gastric Balloon left permanently in the Patient?

The balloon must be removed within six months to avoid complications because of possible deflation which could take place from acidic reactions of the stomach contents which, over time, tend to weaken the silicone skin of the balloon. If further treatment is prescribed, the balloon will have to be replaced at the end of six months.

How is the BioEnterics Intragastric Balloon Procedure Conducted?

The Intragastric balloon procedure, also called BioEnterics Intragastric Balloon (BIB), is conducted under light sedation. The balloon is introduced into the stomach through oral endoscopy. When the balloon is properly located, sterile saline water is injected into it, using a filling tube. The filled balloon floats freely in the stomach. The whole procedure typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes. The patient is generally discharged within an hour or two after the procedure.

Who is this Gastric Balloon Insertion Procedure intended for?

The ideal candidate is one with a Body Mass Index of at least 27 and carrying excess weight but not of a degree to justify more severe weight loss procedures. The patient must be suitably motivated and ready to accept a medically supervised diet and exercise regime.

It is also used as a kick-start measure for severely obese patients who are slated for weight loss surgery enabling them to lose weight before surgery to minimize surgical risks.

The Intragastric balloon technique is often applied to obese patients who run significant obesity-related health risks where other supervised weight-loss programs have failed.

The following is a video of the Intragastric Balloon Insertion Procedure

 

How much weight can the patient expect to lose?

The balloon is a tool which works best when you follow the prescribed low-calorie intragastric balloon diet and exercise routine. A reasonable average to expect is 1 kg per week.

What can I eat after the balloon is inserted?

For the first week you will be prescribed a liquid diet till the stomach accustoms itself to the presence of the balloon. After that you will transition to soft and pureed food for some time before resuming normal food.

What are the Intragastric Balloon Side Effects?

Some patients might experience nausea and vomiting in the initial period till the stomach becomes accustomed to the balloon being in it. This is an expected reaction which is treated with regular anti-nausea medication. There might also be a feeling of heaviness and pain in the abdomen, indigestion or gastro-esophageal reflux, but this is relatively rare.

What are the risks of Intragastric Balloon involved?

While this is a relatively risk-free procedure, some complications that may arise are:

  • The balloon partially deflates and moves into the small bowel obstructing it. The balloon will be removed surgically or endoscopically.
  • Surgical correction might be required to remedy bleeding or perforation which may happen when inserting or removing the balloon.

How is the Gastric Balloon removed?

Removing BioEnterics Intragastric Balloon (BIB) is done endoscopically under light sedation. The balloon is first deflated with a special needle then removed with special forceps through the mouth. The Intragastric Balloon Removal process takes from 10 to 15 minutes.

What is the Gastric Balloon Success Rate

The prime purpose of intragastric balloon therapy is to help you lose weight. It is also designed to assist you in making lifestyle changes through which you can lose more weight if needed, and keep it off permanently. This is a temporary measure for to kick start the treatment of obesity and not a long term solution. Like all other Bariatric Surgeries And Procedures, the success rate is higher when the patient works together with their Bariatrician towards long term weight loss and maintenance.

Micro Sleeve Gastrectomy Weight Loss Surgery

Micro-sleeve gastrectomy surgery, also known as micro–sleeve bariatric surgery is a non-invasive, state-of-the-art technique in weight-loss solutions. It is a restrictive bariatric procedure which offers better, quicker and simpler weight loss with faster recovery and minimal discomfort.

What Is The Micro-Sleeve Gastrectomy Protocol?

Micro-sleeve gastrectomy entails a single cut in the abdominal region near to the belly button of about ¾” in length unlike regular laparoscopic bariatric surgery which requires multiple incisions. This solitary incision allows the surgeon to insert flexible devices through which the surgery is performed. Since only one small incision is involved, the scarring is negligible leaving virtually no blemishes.

Who is the perfect candidate for Micro-Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Micro-sleeve gastrectomy would be an ideal solution for a person with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 and over or is at least 100 pounds overweight. It would also be applicable to anyone suffering from life-threatening, obesity-related disorders like cardiovascular conditions, hypertension, sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes and mechanical arthropathy to name a few. The physician would also look to a minimum BMI of 35 in such patients. The third criterion would be someone who has been grossly overweight for over 2 years and where weight loss programs, diet and exercise have proved unsuccessful.

How does Micro-Sleeve Gastrectomy Work?

The principle is very similar to regular gastric sleeve surgery where multiple laparoscopic incisions are made in the abdominal region. Through these incisions the surgeon removes up to 85 percent of the stomach and shapes what remains into a tube or sleeve about the size of a banana. By reducing the size of the stomach you begin to feel full much faster into a meal and remain full for a longer period. Laparoscopic sleeve surgery is intended to regulate the intake of food and nourishment to reduce weight.

Micro-sleeve gastrectomy achieves the same objectives but through a single incision using what is called the Spider Surgical System. The system comprises of miniature surgical devices contained in a flexible tube which offers the surgeon 360 degrees access and visibility. The tube is inserted through the incision and is opened up like a miniature umbrella where it is required. When the surgery is completed the miniature instrumentation fold back into the tube which is then retracted.

What is the Duration Of The Surgery?

The whole procedure would typically last an hour and a half.

How long would I have to remain in hospital?

In a normal procedure you should be discharged within 24 hours.

What are the pre-surgery preparations?

Depending on how much overweight you are, the surgeon might recommend you to lose some weight before a gastrectomy procedure. This is to reduce the fat in the liver and shrink it to ensure faster recovery.

What are the benefits of Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Sleeve gastrectomy limits the size of the stomach to slow digestion and the passage of food into the intestine. It also promotes weight loss by limiting food intake. But unlike gastric bypass surgery, the stomach is not totally bypassed enabling a patient to eat more food.

How do I evaluate success?

The goal of patients undergoing micro-sleeve gastrectomy should focus on improved health benefits and not solely on cosmetic advantages. A fair measure of success would be significant weight loss and improved medical conditions. As a guideline, expect to lose about half your total weight loss within 3 months of the procedure and the rest within a span of 12 to 15 months after the surgery. To reach the ideal BMI of between 22 and 25 would be perfect but that would largely depend on the condition of the patient and the amount of excess weight prior to surgery.