Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
With severe damages caused by hypertension, high cholesterol, arthritis, sleep apnea, and other obesity-related diseases, obesity threatens overall health. It increases the risk of heart diseases, atherosclerosis, and certain tumors like cervical cancer and breast cancer.
For this reason, a surgical operation may be needed to achieve ideal weight and lower the risk of infection. Sleeve Gastrectomy is a modern and effective surgery with minimal complications and has become one of the best treatments for obesity.
What is Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy involves removing approximately 80% of the stomach on a vertical plane. This reduces stomach capacity to 20% and suppresses hunger by removing the part of the stomach that secretes the hunger hormone.
How is Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Performed?
The procedure is done using a surgical endoscope inserted through 5 small incisions (less than 1 cm) in the abdomen, which are closed aesthetically.
It lasts about 30 to 45 minutes. Because the stomach is resected vertically and cannot be completely filled with food, weight loss can reach up to 75% of the optimal weight by reducing hunger hormone secretion.
When Does an Obese Patient Need Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
If BMI is 40 kg/m².
If BMI is 35 kg/m² with chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, or arthritis.
If the patient cannot lose weight through non-surgical methods like gastric balloon or diet.
If the patient has communication issues and chronic depression due to a psychological condition.
Calculation of Body Mass Index = weight in kilograms / height in square meters
What is the Appropriate Age for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
While Pediatric Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy can be done, it is recommended for patients aged 18 and over. Long-term effects have not been well-documented in children compared to adults.
What Kind of Stapler is Used in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Modern staplers made of titanium, which have no adverse effects on the body, are used. High-quality staplers are chosen to prevent leakages and complications.
What Are the Results of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Reducing stomach capacity to about 20% significantly suppresses hunger and reduces food intake.
Fullness is felt earlier, and hunger delays due to decreased secretion of the hunger hormone (ghrelin).
Seventy percent of excess weight is lost in the first six months, with weight loss continuing until reaching optimal body weight.
Gastrointestinal functions are unaffected, as the digestive tract remains unchanged.
The laparoscopic technique ensures safety and effectiveness.
Effective treatment for diabetes, improving Type II diabetes and controlling Type I diabetes by enhancing insulin receptor sensitivity.
Benefits hypertension patients, with over 75% stopping or reducing their medication.
Improves blood cholesterol levels.
Eliminates joint pains and infections caused by excess weight.
Resolves sleeping disorders and respiratory issues caused by obesity.
Suitable for all types of obesity and weight levels.
Patients are typically discharged one day after surgery.
Prevents obesity-related diseases like atherosclerosis and heart diseases.
What Are the Complications of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
🔴 Potential complications include:
🔴 Leakage from one of the staplers used to close the stomach. High-quality staplers help prevent this, but if leakage occurs, a stent can be inserted without additional surgery.
🔴 Bleeding related to the surgical procedure, which can depend on the surgeon's skills and experience.
Does the Stapler Get Removed After Surgery?
No, the stapler is not removed. Made of titanium, it has no adverse effects on the body and has been used safely for many years.
What Are the Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery?
Pain relief after surgery.
Short hospital stay.
Quicker return to work.
Improved appearance (no visible scar).
Faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
Rapid return to daily life.
Which Tests Are Needed Before the Surgery?
Fasting blood glucose.
Complete blood count.
Blood type.
Liver functions.
Kidney functions.
Thyroid functions.
Gallbladder and liver imaging to check for gallbladder stones and liver size.
What is the Duration of This Surgery?
The procedure takes about two days: one day for the surgery and one day for patient checks.
Is It Normal to Lose Appetite After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Yes, it is normal due to the reduced size of the stomach and decreased hunger hormone (ghrelin). Appetite may increase over time but will not return to preoperative levels, typically taking about 3 months. During this period, smaller meals and increased fluid intake are recommended.
Is There Any Issue with Being Pregnant After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
There is no medical conflict between pregnancy and the surgery; however, it is advised to wait at least a year post-surgery to allow the body to adapt to the reduced digestive system and food intake.
Would I Feel Pain After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Compared to conventional surgeries, pain is minimal. Pain is managed with medications postoperatively, and the absence of pain often surprises patients. Pain tolerance varies, but discomfort decreases over time.
When Can the Patient Walk After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Patients can walk two hours after surgery and should walk every two hours during the hospital stay. This helps prevent complications such as vein thrombosis caused by immobility.
Does Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Treat Obesity Complications?
Yes, the surgery treats obesity-related complications like diabetes, joint diseases, hypertension, and heart functions. It also improves reproductive capacity in women.
Are you overweight and want to get rid of excess weight through the best health methods? Please talk to us!