Our Summary

This research paper is a review and analysis of multiple studies to see how different sizes of a tool called a bougie impact the results of a weight loss surgery known as laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). The bougie is used to guide the surgeon in removing a portion of the stomach, and this research wanted to see if the size of the bougie had any effect on the patient’s weight loss and complications after surgery.

After looking at data from 11 different studies, the researchers found that surgeries using thinner bougies resulted in greater weight loss. Importantly, the size of the bougie didn’t seem to affect the risk of complications, leaks in the gastrointestinal tract, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

However, they could not make a definite conclusion about whether the size of the bougie affected the improvement of other health conditions related to obesity, due to lack of data.

In simple terms, this study suggests that using a thinner tool during this specific weight loss surgery could potentially result in better weight loss, and doesn’t seem to raise the risk of complications.

FAQs

  1. Does the size of the bougie used in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy impact the patient’s weight loss after surgery?
  2. Does the size of the bougie affect the risk of complications, leaks in the gastrointestinal tract, or gastroesophageal reflux disease after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?
  3. Is there a correlation between the bougie size and improvement of other health conditions related to obesity after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

Therefore, a helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about gastrectomy could be to discuss with their surgeon the size of the bougie being used during the procedure. It may be beneficial to consider using a thinner bougie to potentially achieve greater weight loss outcomes. However, it’s important to remember that individual results may vary, and it’s essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations and advice throughout the recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended for gastrectomy typically include those who have severe obesity (BMI over 40), have not been successful with other weight loss methods, and have obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Additionally, patients who are at high risk for obesity-related complications or have a high risk of developing obesity-related health conditions may also be recommended for gastrectomy. It is important for patients to discuss their individual health situation with their healthcare provider to determine if gastrectomy is the right option for them.

Timeline

Before the gastrectomy:

  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and consultations with the surgeon and medical team
  • Patient may need to follow a specific diet or weight loss plan prior to surgery
  • Surgery is scheduled and patient is prepared for the procedure
  • Patient undergoes laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, where a portion of the stomach is removed using a bougie as a guide

After the gastrectomy:

  • Patient is monitored closely in the recovery room post-surgery
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and nausea in the days following surgery
  • Patient gradually transitions to a liquid diet and then solid foods over time
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with the medical team to monitor weight loss progress and overall health
  • Patient may need to make lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications and increased physical activity, to support weight loss and prevent complications

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after gastrectomy involves pre-operative preparation, the surgical procedure itself, post-operative recovery, and long-term follow-up care to ensure successful weight loss and overall health improvement.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about gastrectomy include:

  1. What size bougie will be used during my laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery?
  2. How does the size of the bougie impact weight loss results?
  3. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with using a thinner or thicker bougie?
  4. Will the size of the bougie affect my recovery time or post-operative care?
  5. How does the size of the bougie impact other health conditions related to obesity, such as diabetes or high blood pressure?
  6. Are there any alternative surgical techniques or tools that could be considered for my gastrectomy?
  7. What is the surgeon’s experience with using different sizes of bougies during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?
  8. Are there any specific diet or lifestyle changes I should make before or after surgery based on the size of the bougie used?
  9. How often will I need to follow up with my doctor after the surgery, and what should I expect in terms of monitoring my weight loss and overall health?
  10. Are there any ongoing studies or research on the use of bougies in gastrectomy that I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Wang Y, Yi XY, Gong LL, Li QF, Zhang J, Wang ZH. Journal: Int J Surg. 2018 Jan;49:32-38. doi: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2017.12.005. Epub 2017 Dec 12. PMID: 29246457