Gastric Sleeve

Dr Ian Martin is skilled in a variety of procedures enabling him to make recommendations based on each patients’ individual goals. Every surgical procedure carries some risk, however for most patients, the benefits greatly outweigh other potentially more serious health challenges faced as a result of their obesity.

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A sleeve gastrectomy involves removing 75-85% of the stomach to reduce the stomach to a “sleeve” with a limited capacity of about 200ml. The stomach remnant produces less of the hunger producing hormone grehlin, which switches off the desire to eat. This is the most common weight loss operation performed in Australia.

EXPECTED WEIGHT LOSS: 25% total body weight loss

SURGICAL PROCEDURE:

Laparoscopic, 5 small incisions
Operation time – less than one hour

The procedure involves creating a sleeve-shaped stomach that is about the size of a banana. About 70% to 80% of the stomach will be removed during the procedure.

 

 

ADVANTAGES:

  • Laparoscopic procedure “keyhole surgery” so less invasive
  • Simply reduces the amount of food ingested
  • Normal stomach emptying
  • Less malabsorption
  • A further operation (bypass) can be added later if insufficient weight loss

DISADVANTAGES:

  • Not reversible (but can be converted to a Gastric Bypass)
  • Possible long-term weight regain if tube stretches
  • Risk of bleeding or suture line leak immediately after operation
  • Can worsen reflux in some
  • Increased risk of Barrett’s oesophagus reported
  • Requires a lifelong multivitamin

RECOMMENDED FOR PATIENTS WITH:

  • Most obesity patients are suitable candidates for this procedure

RECOVERY:

After gastric sleeve surgery:

  • you will stay in hospital for 1 night
  • you will have pain relieving medications to keep you comfortable
  • you will be given instructions to follow regarding wound care, diet and activity
  • you will take Somac or Nexium for 4 weeks and then stop if reflux free

Patients should:

  • Keep the incision area clean and dry
  • Avoid strenuous exercises and lifting heavy weights for 2 weeks
  • Sip water throughout the day to prevent dehydration
  • Follow the diet regimen given to you by the dietitian
  • Follow an exercise program to maintain weight loss

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS:

  • Possible failure due to poor dietary choices after surgery, or mechanical failure such as the dilation of the stomach tube
  • Bleeding or leakage from the stapled edge of the stomach
  • Scarring causing strictures
  • Nutrient deficiencies
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux
  • Gallstones
  • Modest weight regain if tube stretches
  • Wound infection
  • Venous Thromboembolism

Learn more about the cost of each procedure

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Brisbane Weight Loss Surgery

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