This gastric sleeve operation has been around for 15+ yrs. It started as the first component of the duodenal switch operation (BPD) without the bypass, but is now acknowledged as a stand alone procedure.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy has become our preferred approach to morbid obesity over the last 15 years
- Mercy Bariatrics was one of the first centres in Australia to offer Sleeve Gastrectomy
- Over the last 15 years we have performed over 2000 sleeves
- Provides the most natural eating style
- Not a malabsorption operation
Gastric Sleeve Operation
The gastric sleeve operation involves removing the lateral 4/5 of the stomach with a stapling device. It is done laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) but is not reversible. It basically leaves a stomach tube instead of a stomach sack. But the stomach empties normally because of the pyloric valve which is preserved.
The sleeve gastrectomy is the only truly “reductive” procedure. It leaves patients with a small but functionally normal stomach which allows a near normal selection of foods in much reduced volume. Although originally intended as a two stage procedure for patients with super obesity, it is now accepted that it works just as well as a single stage procedure providing the initial sleeve volume is small enough (ideally 80-100mls initially).
The Gastric Sleeve is now the most commonly performed bariatric operation in Australia.
Mercy Bariatrics in Perth offers a fully integrated approach designed to support you in all aspects of your weight loss.
Much harder to cheat than the LAGB
There is an absolute volume limit on the new sleeved stomach. This means that initially you will drink 1/2 cup of coffee and feel full and the coffee will be getting cool by the time you finish. This means that it is a lot harder to cheat on high calorie liquids like milkshakes and ice coffees like Band patients learn to do. Patients living in hot areas need to carry a water bottle with them and drink steadily during the day.
Gastric sleeve surgery and alcohol
It is also harder to drink large amounts of alcohol after a sleeve and you will find that you will become twice as drunk, for twice as long on the same amount of alcohol! This is because the alcohol exits the stomach more rapidly and is very quickly absorbed.
The Ghrelin effect
An additional effect is that removing 90% of the stomach reduces the amount of the hunger hormone Ghrelin that is produced so that for the first 6 months most sleeve patients notice a significant reduction in hunger and appetite. Even when hunger does start to return it is easily satisfied by a small snack.
No adjustments required
It is ideal for patients who live or work in remote areas because no post operative adjustments are possible or required. There is also no risk of food getting stuck.
Improved quality of eating
Unlike the band and gastric bypass there is no outlet restriction so patients can eat just about whatever type of food… just much smaller amount. Vomiting is much less frequent than after a band and is uncommon after a few months when you get used to the new capacity of your stomach. Typically an entree size portion feels like a banquet.
Superior weight loss vs LAGB
Weight loss with gastric sleeve surgery is more rapid than a Band and approaches that of a bypass, being 80-90 % by one year (based on a 36 fr sleeve) and 65% by three years (based on 40 fr sleeve). The sleeve does stretch up a little over time. This is common to all bariatric operations. See our results for sleeve.
If there were to be significant weight regain, the sleeve can be further reduced by re-sleeving, or a band placed around the sleeve or a bypass created from it.
Equivalent weight loss vs gastric bypass
At all time stages the current sleeve outcomes matches and in many case exceeds that of Roux en Y gastric bypass.
Good revision option
It might also be a good option if patients have a problem with their band requiring revision, have already lost a lot of weight and don’t want a full bypass.It is our preferred revision option for all failed bands. We have found, however that if patients already have a band the safest sequence is to first remove the band and prepare the stomach wall, then wait three months before sleeving. This minimises the risk of leak and other complications.
Risks and complications
- Leak from Staple line now <1%.
- Bleeding <1%.
- Reflux.
- Late weight regain.
- Can’t drink quickly.
Next Steps
It’s easy to get started with gastric sleeve surgery in Perth and we’re with you every step of the way.
CONTACT US
We can answer any questions and help you understand the process.
REFERRAL FROM GP
Bariatric surgery is a specialist procedure which requires a referral from your GP.
FIRST CONSULT
Meet and discuss your surgical options with your bariatric surgeon.
TEAM ASSESSMENT
Consultation with a dietitian, exercise physiologist and bariatric assessor.
PRE-OP MEETING
Confirmation of surgery option with your surgeon.
BARIATRIC SURGERY
Your weight loss surgery is performed.
POST-OP MEETING
Usually 10 days after surgery with your surgeon, dietitian and support coordinator.
SUCCESS HABITS
4 week aftercare program included for all our bariatric patients.
Mercy Bariatrics Perth
We are leaders in the field of bariatric surgery and offer a fully integrated approach to ensure your weight loss is sustainable and life changing. Read more about our integrated approach and important information for type 2 diabetes. We are very proud of our results.
RELATED VIDEOS
We have produced a series of videos outlining the gastric sleeve procedure and all aspects of bariatric surgery. View the videos.
Call Mercy Bariatrics 08 9272 0420
