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Also called vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VAS), the bariatric procedure involves removing a part of the stomach to drastically decrease its volume. What's left after the surgical procedure is a small, banana-shaped stomach that is closed using staples. The surgery curbs the feeling of hunger by increasing the feeling of fullness even after a small meal. Removing the part of the stomach means the procedure is irreversible and has an effect on the appetite and metabolism.
How is the surgical procedure performed?
Here's a quick summary of how the sleeve gastrectomy treatment in Bangalore is performed laparoscopically,
The patient is sedated under general anaesthesia and sleeps throughout the procedure.
A small 1.2 cm incision is made in the abdomen to insert a port for the instruments.
The abdomen is pumped with carbon dioxide to increase visibility and improve mobility in the cavity.
A laparoscope which has a small video camera and light, is inserted to view the abdomen.
Long and narrow surgical tools are used to perform the surgery using a second incision at a different place.
The stomach is cut to make the gastric sleeve and stitched together using a surgical stapler.
The remainder of the stomach is removed through one of the ports, and the incisions are closed.
Post-surgery and recovery
Since sleeve gastrectomy is a major surgical procedure, the patient is required to stay at the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery. Frequent check-ups will be held over the coming months to monitor recovery and determine the progress of the surgery. It is normal to feel tired and fatigued until the body gets accustomed to fewer calories.
Diet after sleeve gastrectomy
Immediately after the procedure, strict diet guidelines have to be followed to ensure the full recovery of the stomach. In a few months, when the stomach has fully healed, it is possible to get back on a normal diet. However, it is important to choose healthy foods as the patient won't be able to consume as much as before, and it becomes important to focus on important nutrients. Vitamin supplements have to be taken for the rest of your life to ensure adequate micronutrient intake.
Weight loss after the procedure
People can expect to lose 25% to 30% of body weight in the first one or two years. Depending on the diet followed, people can lose weight faster. Some also regain weight by continuing the same old lifestyle. However, there will be a steady weight loss of 25% to 30% over the next five years.
Advantages and disadvantages of sleeve gastrectomy
Like all surgeries, sleeve gastrectomy also has its own set of ups and downs.
Advantages
The procedure is simpler, quicker and safer compared to others
More suitable for people with other health conditions
Less cont term complications
Disadvantages
Immediate complications in a few cases such as bleeding, infections and leaking from the staple line.
Scar tissues can sometimes restrict food causing nausea and difficulty eating.
Gastroesophageal reflux
Nutritional deficiencies
Consult with the best doctors at Manipal Hospitals.
