Gastric Plication - Abu Dhabi

Gastric plication, also known as laparoscopic gastric imbrication, is a surgical procedure performed to assist with weight loss in individuals who are obese. It involves folding and suturing the stomach to reduce its capacity, which restricts the amount of food that can be consumed and promotes feelings of fullness.

Here's a general overview of the gastric plication procedure:

1. 1.  Pre-surgery evaluation: Before undergoing gastric plication surgery, you will typically undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a bariatric surgeon. This evaluation includes a review of your medical history, physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly additional tests to assess your suitability for the procedure and your overall health.
2. 2.  Anesthesia: Gastric plication surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.
3. 3.  Surgical procedure: The surgeon will make several small incisions in your abdomen. They will then insert a laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) and specialized instruments through the incisions. The surgeon will fold the stomach inward, creating multiple pleats or folds, and then suture the folds in place to reduce the stomach's capacity.
4. 4.  Stomach size reduction: The goal of gastric plication is to reduce the size of the stomach by about 70-80% while preserving its natural anatomy. This limits the amount of food that can be consumed, promotes feelings of fullness, and restricts caloric intake.
5. 5.  Recovery and follow-up: After the surgery, you will typically stay in the hospital for a short period to monitor your recovery. You will be given specific dietary guidelines to follow, which usually include a gradual transition from liquids to solid foods. Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare team, including dietitians and bariatric specialists, are important to monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments to the diet and lifestyle, and provide ongoing support.
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Gastric plication is a relatively newer procedure compared to other weight loss surgeries such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. It is considered to be less invasive since it does not involve the removal or alteration of any part of the stomach or intestines. However, the long-term effectiveness and outcomes of gastric plication are still being evaluated, and it may not be as commonly performed as other established procedures.

As with any surgery, gastric plication carries potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, leaks at the surgical site, stomach irritation, and the possibility of the stomach returning to its original size over time. It's crucial to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider and understand the potential benefits, risks, and long-term implications of gastric plication before making a decision.

The decision to undergo gastric plication surgery is typically made in consultation with a multidisciplinary healthcare team, considering your individual circumstances, health status, and previous weight loss efforts.