Sleeve Gastrectomy - Abu Dhabi

Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to help individuals with obesity lose weight. It involves removing a large portion of the stomach to create a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach that restricts the amount of food that can be consumed. The procedure not only promotes weight loss but can also lead to improvements in various obesity-related health conditions.

Here are some key points about sleeve gastrectomy:

1. 1.  Procedure: Sleeve gastrectomy is typically performed laparoscopically, using several small incisions in the abdomen. The surgeon removes approximately 75-80% of the stomach, leaving behind a narrow tube or sleeve-shaped stomach.
2. 2.  Restriction and hormonal changes: Sleeve gastrectomy works through two main mechanisms. First, the smaller stomach restricts the amount of food that can be eaten, leading to a feeling of fullness with smaller meals. Second, the surgery causes hormonal changes that can reduce appetite and promote satiety.
3. 3.  Weight loss and health benefits: Sleeve gastrectomy can lead to significant weight loss, usually ranging from 50-70% of excess body weight over a period of 12-18 months. In addition to weight loss, it often results in improvements or remission of obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and metabolic syndrome.
4. 4.  Long-term outcomes: The long-term outcomes of sleeve gastrectomy are generally favorable, with sustained weight loss and improvement in health conditions observed in many patients. However, it's important to note that individual results may vary, and adherence to lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and regular physical activity, is crucial for long-term success.
5. 5.  Pre-operative evaluation: Before undergoing sleeve gastrectomy, individuals typically undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a bariatric surgeon. This evaluation includes a review of medical history, physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly psychological assessments to assess suitability for the procedure and overall health.
6. 6.  Post-operative care and lifestyle changes: After sleeve gastrectomy, individuals need to follow a specific diet and make lifestyle changes to support weight loss and ensure successful outcomes. This may involve transitioning from a liquid diet to a gradual reintroduction of solid foods, portion control, and adopting healthy eating habits. Regular follow-up visits with a healthcare team, including a dietitian, are essential for ongoing support, monitoring, and adjustments to the diet and lifestyle as needed.

As with any surgical procedure, sleeve gastrectomy carries potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, blood clots, leaks at the surgical site, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. It's important to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to understand the potential benefits, risks, and long-term implications of sleeve gastrectomy before making a decision. The decision to undergo sleeve gastrectomy is typically made in consultation with a multidisciplinary healthcare team, considering your individual circumstances, health status, and previous weight loss efforts.