Our Summary

Obesity has become a major issue in the United States. One of the ways to manage it is through a special type of surgery known as bariatric surgery. Among the various types of bariatric surgeries, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is becoming increasingly popular. This is due to its effectiveness and lower risk of complications compared to other similar surgeries. This paper discusses how this surgery is performed, examines the imaging of the surgery when it is performed correctly and when complications arise, and points out potential issues that can be seen in the surgical images.

FAQs

  1. What is a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and why is it being increasingly performed for the treatment of morbid obesity?
  2. What are the potential complications and radiographic pitfalls associated with sleeve gastrectomy?
  3. How does the complication rate of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy compare to other bariatric surgical techniques?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about gastrectomy is to follow a strict diet and exercise regimen post-surgery to help with weight loss and overall health. It is important to maintain a balanced diet and avoid high-calorie, high-fat foods to prevent complications and promote successful weight loss. Regular physical activity is also important for maintaining weight loss and overall well-being after gastrectomy. It is important to follow up with your healthcare team regularly to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended for gastrectomy are typically those with severe obesity (morbidly obese individuals) who have not been successful with other weight loss methods such as diet and exercise. In some cases, patients with obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea may also be recommended for gastrectomy. Additionally, patients with a high risk of developing obesity-related health complications may also be candidates for gastrectomy. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation and consultation with a healthcare provider to determine if gastrectomy is the most appropriate treatment option for their individual circumstances.

Timeline

Before Gastrectomy:

  1. Consultation with a bariatric surgeon to discuss options for weight loss surgery.
  2. Preoperative evaluations, including blood tests, imaging studies, and psychological assessments.
  3. Education on the procedure, risks, and benefits of gastrectomy.
  4. Preoperative dietary changes and weight loss to prepare for surgery.
  5. Clearance from other medical specialists, such as cardiologists or pulmonologists.

After Gastrectomy:

  1. Hospitalization for the surgery and recovery period.
  2. Gradual progression from clear liquids to pureed foods and eventually solid foods.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon for monitoring and adjustments to diet and medications.
  4. Regular exercise regimen to aid in weight loss and maintenance.
  5. Long-term dietary changes to prevent complications, such as vitamin deficiencies, dumping syndrome, and weight regain.
  6. Support from a multidisciplinary team, including dietitians, psychologists, and support groups, to help with postoperative care and lifestyle changes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a gastrectomy and why is it being recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with gastrectomy surgery?
  3. How will my diet and eating habits need to change after gastrectomy surgery?
  4. What is the long-term outlook and potential side effects of gastrectomy surgery?
  5. Will I need any additional follow-up care or support after the surgery?
  6. How will gastrectomy surgery affect my ability to absorb nutrients and vitamins?
  7. Are there any alternatives to gastrectomy surgery that I should consider?
  8. How experienced are you in performing gastrectomy surgeries and what is your success rate?
  9. Can you provide me with information on the recovery process and expected timeline after gastrectomy surgery?
  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after gastrectomy surgery?

Reference

Authors: Ekinci T, Stein MW, Mazzariol FS, Wolf EL. Journal: Clin Imaging. 2017 May-Jun;43:36-41. doi: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2017.01.011. Epub 2017 Jan 31. PMID: 28187354