Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new method to handle a common issue that arises after a specific type of weight loss surgery. The surgery, called Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG), is the most frequently performed weight loss surgery worldwide. However, it can sometimes lead to complications such as post-operative stenosis, a condition where the stomach or intestine narrows, making it hard for food to pass through.

To address this problem, doctors have developed an innovative procedure called Gastric Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (G-POEM). This technique has been around for about a decade, and it’s designed to treat conditions that slow down the emptying of the stomach. The paper presents a case where G-POEM was successfully used to manage post-LSG gastric stenosis. This shows the potential of G-POEM as a less invasive treatment for such complications.

FAQs

  1. What is Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and why is it the most common form of bariatric surgery worldwide?
  2. What is gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) and how is it used to treat post-LSG gastric stenosis?
  3. What are some potential adverse events associated with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and how can they be effectively and minimally invasively treated?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about gastric sleeve surgery is to follow a strict post-operative diet plan to ensure successful weight loss and minimize the risk of complications. This typically includes gradually introducing solid foods, avoiding high-calorie and high-fat foods, and focusing on protein-rich, nutrient-dense foods. It’s important to work closely with a dietitian to develop a personalized meal plan that meets your nutritional needs while supporting your weight loss goals. Additionally, staying hydrated, taking recommended supplements, and engaging in regular physical activity can also help optimize the results of gastric sleeve surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for gastric sleeve surgery include those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Patients should also have tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. Additionally, candidates for gastric sleeve surgery should be committed to making lifestyle changes and have a good understanding of the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Timeline

Before gastric sleeve surgery:

  • Patient meets with a bariatric surgeon for consultation and evaluation
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to determine if they are a suitable candidate for surgery
  • Patient follows a pre-operative diet and exercise plan to prepare for surgery
  • Patient undergoes gastric sleeve surgery, which involves removing a portion of the stomach to reduce its size and limit the amount of food it can hold
  • Post-operative recovery period in the hospital, typically 1-2 days

After gastric sleeve surgery:

  • Patient follows a strict post-operative diet and exercise plan to promote weight loss and prevent complications
  • Patient may experience initial weight loss and improvements in obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure
  • Patient may experience some side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and reflux in the first few weeks after surgery
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with their bariatric surgeon and dietitian to monitor progress and make adjustments to their diet and exercise plan
  • Patient continues to make lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss and improve overall health in the long term

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is gastric sleeve surgery and how does it work?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with gastric sleeve surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process after gastric sleeve surgery?
  4. How much weight can I expect to lose after gastric sleeve surgery?
  5. What lifestyle changes will I need to make after gastric sleeve surgery?
  6. Will I need to take any vitamins or supplements after gastric sleeve surgery?
  7. How often will I need to follow up with you after gastric sleeve surgery?
  8. What are the signs and symptoms of complications that I should watch out for after gastric sleeve surgery?
  9. Can you provide me with resources or support groups for patients who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures available for weight loss besides gastric sleeve surgery?

Reference

Authors: Farha J, Fayad L, Kadhim A, Şimşek C, Badurdeen DS, Ichkhanian Y, Itani MI, Kalloo AN, Khashab MA, Kumbhari V. Journal: Obes Surg. 2019 Jul;29(7):2350-2354. doi: 10.1007/s11695-019-03893-6. PMID: 31001761