Our Summary

This study aimed to understand how a specific type of weight loss surgery, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), affects the movement and function of the digestive system. In simple terms, this surgery reduces the size of the stomach, and as a result, changes how food moves through the stomach and intestines.

The researchers looked at various previous studies to see the impact of this surgery on different parts of the digestive system, specifically the esophagus (food pipe), stomach, and intestines. They found mixed results when it came to the esophagus, partly because the studies used different methods and follow-up times.

For the stomach, most studies showed that food moved more quickly through it after the surgery. On the flip side, the surgery seemed to disrupt the stomach’s natural rhythm, as it removed the part of the stomach that usually sets this rhythm.

When it comes to the intestines, there was less information available. But the existing studies suggested that food also moved more quickly through the small intestine, while the filling of the cecum (first part of the large intestine) and the transit through the ileocecal valve (valve between the small and large intestine) was delayed.

In conclusion, the weight loss surgery does seem to affect the movement and function of the digestive system, but more research is needed to fully understand these changes and how they relate to any symptoms people might experience after the surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the impact of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on gastrointestinal motility?
  2. How does laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy affect esophageal, gastric, and bowel motility?
  3. What further research is needed to understand the effects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on gastrointestinal motility?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about gastric sleeve surgery is to be aware of the potential changes in gastrointestinal motility that can occur after the procedure. It is important for patients to understand that their stomach and small bowel motility may be accelerated, leading to rapid gastric emptying and reduced transit times. Patients may also experience delayed initiation of cecal filling and ileocecal valve transit. It is recommended for patients to follow their post-operative dietary and lifestyle guidelines closely to help manage these changes and optimize their weight loss outcomes. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is also important to monitor and address any potential gastrointestinal issues that may arise.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for gastric sleeve surgery are 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. It is also recommended for patients who have tried other weight loss methods without success. Additionally, patients who are motivated and committed to making lifestyle changes after surgery are good candidates for gastric sleeve surgery.

Timeline

Before gastric sleeve surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and consultations with a bariatric surgeon and other healthcare professionals.
  2. Patient may be required to follow a specific diet and exercise regimen in preparation for surgery.
  3. Patient may attend counseling sessions to discuss the physical and emotional aspects of weight loss surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery, where a portion of the stomach is removed to create a smaller stomach pouch.
  5. Patient stays in the hospital for a few days for recovery.
  6. Patient gradually transitions to a liquid diet, then pureed foods, and eventually solid foods over several weeks.
  7. Patient attends follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to their diet and lifestyle.

After gastric sleeve surgery:

  1. Patient experiences weight loss due to reduced stomach size and changes in appetite and satiety hormones.
  2. Patient may experience changes in gastrointestinal motility, including accelerated gastric emptying and small bowel transit time.
  3. Patient may experience improved digestion and absorption of nutrients.
  4. Patient may need to take vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
  5. Patient may experience changes in taste preferences and food tolerances.
  6. Patient may attend support groups or counseling sessions to help with the emotional and psychological aspects of weight loss.
  7. Patient continues to follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen to maintain weight loss and overall health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How will the gastric sleeve surgery impact my gastrointestinal motility?

  2. Will the surgery affect my ability to eat and digest food normally?

  3. What changes can I expect in terms of appetite and feeling of satiety after the surgery?

  4. Are there any potential risks or complications related to changes in gastrointestinal motility post-surgery?

  5. How will the surgery impact my esophageal motility and potential issues like acid reflux?

  6. What is the typical recovery process for gastrointestinal motility after gastric sleeve surgery?

  7. Are there any specific dietary guidelines or recommendations to follow post-surgery to support gastrointestinal motility?

  8. How often should I follow up with you or a specialist to monitor my gastrointestinal motility post-surgery?

  9. Are there any signs or symptoms I should watch for that may indicate a problem with my gastrointestinal motility after the surgery?

  10. Can you provide me with resources or additional information to help me better understand how gastric sleeve surgery affects gastrointestinal motility?

Reference

Authors: Sioka E, Tzovaras G, Perivoliotis K, Bakalis V, Zachari E, Magouliotis D, Tassiopoulou V, Potamianos S, Kapsoritakis A, Poultsidi A, Tepetes K, Chatzitheofilou C, Zacharoulis D. Journal: Gastroenterol Res Pract. 2018 Apr 5;2018:4135813. doi: 10.1155/2018/4135813. eCollection 2018. PMID: 29849586