Vertical gastrectomy (Sleeve)
Vertical gastrectomy is a restrictive surgery. During the procedure, the surgeon will remove approximately 75% of the stomach. This will cause a decrease in the amount of food that can be ingested at one time. In addition to reducing the size of the stomach, there will be a loss in appetite, as the hormone that stimulates hunger, ghrelin, will not be present anymore because it is located in the part of the stomach that is removed.
The surgery will take approximately 1 hour.
This surgery is performed by laparoscopy (5 or 6 small 1 to 3 cm incisions in the abdomen).
The usual length of hospital stay after surgery is 12 to 24 hours, depending on the medical condition.
Main side effects and risks
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Nausea and vomiting
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Difficulty digesting
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Leakage along the staple line (stomach)
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Gastric reflux and burning in the stomach
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Blockage when eating
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Thrombophlebitis (clot in the legs)
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Bleeding
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Wound infection
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Fatigue and lack of energy
Complications are rare. To decrease the risk of complications and side effects, it is important to follow the indications and recommendations. It is strongly recommended that you do not smoke, do not drink while eating, limit alcohol consumption and significantly reduce your sugary food intake. Surgery is an effective tool that allows you to lose, on average, 50-60% of excess weight. It will help improve or eliminate many associated health problems (diabetes, hypertension, etc.). You will have better results if this is combined with good eating habits and a varied physical activities program. Taking vitamins and supplements will be necessary after surgery to prevent certain nutritional deficiencies.
