Our Summary

Sleeve gastrectomy is a newer type of weight-loss surgery that involves removing part of your stomach. Like any new surgery, there’s a learning curve for surgeons, which can sometimes lead to complications for patients. A study was conducted to see if having an experienced surgeon virtually “present” to guide less experienced surgeons could help improve their skills.

This study involved 15 surgical trainees who performed this surgery while being virtually mentored by 7 experienced surgeons. They used a system that allowed for real-time, two-way communication through video and audio. The trainees also followed a program that included lessons, watching live surgeries, and being virtually guided through 2-3 surgeries.

Afterwards, both the trainees and mentors were asked to rate their experience. The trainees gave it an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 and said that it was an excellent learning tool. They also said they learned new techniques that they plan to use in their own practice. The mentors rated their experience as 4.7 out of 5, saying they were satisfied with the sessions and there were no unexpected problems during the surgeries. However, they did note some logistical issues, like scheduling difficulties or delays in surgeries.

The study concluded that this kind of virtual mentorship is feasible, practical, and successful. It was highly rated by both the mentors and trainees, and could be a useful tool for teaching surgical skills and supplementing traditional in-person mentorship.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of having an experienced surgeon virtually “present” during a sleeve gastrectomy?
  2. How did the trainees and mentors rate their experience with the virtual mentorship program?
  3. What were the findings and conclusion of the study on virtual mentorship in sleeve gastrectomy surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about gastrectomy is to ensure they are being operated on by an experienced surgeon. This study highlights the importance of surgeon experience in performing sleeve gastrectomy, as having a mentor virtually present can help improve surgical skills and reduce complications. Patients should inquire about their surgeon’s experience and ask about any virtual mentorship programs they may have participated in to ensure the best possible outcome for their surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for gastrectomy include those with severe obesity who have not been able to lose weight through other methods such as diet and exercise, and who have obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Additionally, patients who have a high risk of developing obesity-related health conditions in the future may also be recommended for gastrectomy. It is important for patients to discuss their individual situation with their healthcare provider to determine if gastrectomy is the right treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before gastrectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments, including physical exams, blood tests, and imaging studies.
  2. Patient receives counseling on the procedure, risks, benefits, and post-operative care.
  3. Patient may be required to follow a special diet or lose weight before surgery.
  4. Patient may need to stop certain medications prior to surgery.

After gastrectomy:

  1. Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for any complications or side effects.
  2. Patient may experience pain, nausea, and difficulty eating in the immediate post-operative period.
  3. Patient gradually transitions from a liquid to a solid diet under the guidance of a dietitian.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor progress and address any concerns.
  5. Patient may need to make long-term lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and regular exercise, to maintain weight loss and overall health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. How experienced are you in performing gastrectomy procedures?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with gastrectomy surgery?
  3. What is the success rate of gastrectomy for weight loss?
  4. What is the recovery process like after gastrectomy surgery?
  5. How will my diet and eating habits need to change after gastrectomy surgery?
  6. Are there any long-term effects of gastrectomy that I should be aware of?
  7. How will gastrectomy surgery impact my overall health and quality of life?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before opting for gastrectomy?
  9. How will you ensure that I receive the best possible care before, during, and after gastrectomy surgery?
  10. Will I have access to ongoing support and follow-up care after gastrectomy surgery?

Reference

Authors: Nguyen NT, Okrainec A, Anvari M, Smith B, Meireles O, Gee D, Moran-Atkin E, Baram-Clothier E, Camacho DR. Journal: Surg Endosc. 2018 Feb;32(2):682-687. doi: 10.1007/s00464-017-5721-8. Epub 2017 Jul 17. PMID: 28717871