Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is a surgical weight-loss procedure in which the stomach is reduced to about 15% of its original size, by surgical removal of a large portion of the stomach, following the major curve. The open edges are then attached together with surgical staples to form a sleeve or tube with a banana shape. The procedure permanently reduces the size of the stomach. The procedure is performed laparoscopically and is not reversible. VSG restricts stomach volume and the amount of food intake by removing 85 percent or more of the stomach without causing any gastrointestinal malabsorption or bypassing the intestines. This removed portion of the stomach is responsible for producing ghrelin, the hormone that causes appetite and hunger. By removing this portion of the stomach rather than leaving it in place, the level of ghrelin is decreased, which causes loss of or a reduction in appetite.
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Advantages
Appealing option for individuals with a higher risk for intestinal bypass procedures
Dramatically improves health problems related to weight
Often allows most foods to be eaten in small amounts
Outlet to the stomach (pylorus) is preserved, minimizing dumping syndrome
Possibility of ulcers occurring is significantly reduced
Reduces stomach volume
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Disadvantages
Considered investigational by some insurance companies
The procedure is not reversible
We have been performing the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure at our practice for the last 2 years. This procedure was pursued as part of our multidisciplinary approach to the evaluation and management of bariatric patients. Our presurgical workup includes multiple medical evaluations, dietary evaluation and counseling by our registered dietitian, a psychological evaluation by our mental healthcare provider, and a fitness evaluation by our exercise physiologist. Routine preoperative laboratory and diagnostic tests are performed, including routine blood tests, upper GI series, ultrasound of the gallbladder, pulmonary function testing, chest x-ray, and EKG.
