Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy
The Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is the newest procedure offered at the Weight Management Center. It can be performed on patients who are too heavy for other weight loss surgeries.
On average, total weight loss is less than Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass but more than the Adjustable Gastric Band. The procedure is not reversible. The risk of malnutrition is low with this surgery.
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy: How does it work?
During this procedure, the surgeon removes the majority of the stomach, reducing it to about one-quarter of its original size. As a result, patients lose weight because they cannot eat as much food. The vertical sleeve gastrectomy does not require open surgery; it can be performed laparoscopically through small incisions in the abdomen. The surgery is irreversible and not covered by all insurance companies.
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy: Is it for me?
Four years after surgery, the average excess weight loss is 60 percent.
Here are some other factors to consider:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
- Not reversible
- No long-term outcomes available
- Reflux and food intolerances
Learn more about the vertical sleeve gastrectomy in our health encyclopedia.