Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric Sleeve Surgery, also known as Sleeve Gastrectomy, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, is a revolutionary procedure that is highly successful for the super-obese. Originally designed as the first stage of a two-stage procedure, it now has the potential to be a stand alone procedure that is quickly gaining in popularity because of what appears to be fewer short-term complications than Gastric Bypass and fewer long-term complications than are found with adjustable bands.

With the two-stage system, the Sleeve Gastrectomy is performed laparoscopically and entails the removal of the lateral two-thirds of the stomach with a stapling device, replacing the stomach sack with a stomach tube.

The two-stage process, if necessary, is performed on those who are severely obese with a BMI of 60 or higher. Once a significant amount of weight is lost, a radical bypass is then performed. One downside to having Gastric Sleeve surgery – it is permanent and cannot be reversed.