Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

In this procedure, a thin vertical sleeve of stomach is created using a stapling device (pictured right). The remaining 2/3 of the stomach is removed. This limits the amount of food that can be eaten at one time (restrictive).
The laparoscopic procedure has the benefit of a quicker recovery time and less pain than traditional open surgery.
This is becoming the most popular surgical weight loss procedure in the nation.
Surgery lasts approximately one hour and requires a hospital stay of approximately one day.
Dietitians will provide on-going education on dietary regimen before and after surgery.
Typically results in a significant amount of weight loss.
Excellent long-term results.
Allows for normal digestion/absorption.
Resolution of comorbidities such as diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, and hypertension.

Does not require the implantation of a foreign body, such as a silastic ring used in gastric banding.
Mechanically decreases the size of the stomach, and also decreases the secretion of the hormone Ghrelin, which is responsible for the feeling of satiety.
Can be used to initially decrease the body weight in severely obese patients to prepare them for another procedure at a later time.