Our Summary

This research paper investigated whether the size of the stomach removed during a type of weight loss surgery called laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy has any effect on the patient’s weight loss after surgery. The study used data from 204 patients who had this surgery between 2011 and 2015. The researchers also looked at whether other factors like the patient’s age, gender, and whether they had diabetes affected the size of the stomach removed.

The results showed that the size of the stomach removed did not affect how much weight patients lost after surgery. It also did not affect changes in the patient’s body mass index (BMI), which is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. However, the size of the stomach removed was larger in male patients, older patients, and patients with diabetes. The patient’s initial BMI and whether they had inflammation of the stomach did not affect the size of the stomach removed.

FAQs

  1. Does the size of the stomach removed during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy affect the patient’s weight loss after surgery?
  2. What factors can influence the size of the stomach removed during a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?
  3. Does a patient’s initial BMI or the presence of stomach inflammation affect the size of the stomach that is removed during surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may tell a patient considering gastric sleeve surgery that the size of the stomach removed during the procedure does not significantly impact weight loss outcomes. Instead, factors such as age, gender, and presence of diabetes may play a role in determining the size of the stomach removed. It is important for patients to discuss these factors with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for their weight loss journey. Additionally, patients should follow post-operative guidelines provided by their healthcare team to ensure successful weight loss and overall health outcomes.

Suitable For

Overall, gastric sleeve surgery is typically recommended for patients who have a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. It is also recommended for patients who have tried and failed to lose weight through other methods such as diet and exercise.

Additionally, patients who are committed to making lifestyle changes after surgery, such as adopting a healthier diet and increasing physical activity, are good candidates for gastric sleeve surgery. Patients who have a realistic understanding of the risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as a willingness to follow post-operative guidelines and attend follow-up appointments, are also typically recommended for gastric sleeve surgery.

It is important for patients considering gastric sleeve surgery to consult with a healthcare provider or bariatric surgeon to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure based on their individual health and weight loss goals.

Timeline

Before gastric sleeve surgery:

  • Patient meets with a healthcare provider to discuss weight loss surgery options
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluations to determine if they are a good candidate for surgery
  • Patient meets with a nutritionist to learn about pre-operative dietary changes
  • Patient attends education sessions to learn about the surgery and post-operative care
  • Patient follows a pre-operative diet to prepare their body for surgery

After gastric sleeve surgery:

  • Patient stays in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery
  • Patient follows a strict post-operative diet plan provided by their healthcare provider
  • Patient gradually increases physical activity as advised by their healthcare provider
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor progress and address any complications
  • Patient may experience weight loss, improved health markers, and increased energy levels
  • Patient may need to make long-term lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss and overall health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How does the size of the stomach removed during gastric sleeve surgery affect my weight loss outcomes?
  2. Are there any specific factors, such as age, gender, or presence of diabetes, that may impact the size of the stomach removed during surgery?
  3. What other factors should I consider when determining the success of my weight loss journey after gastric sleeve surgery?
  4. How will the size of the stomach removed during surgery impact my long-term health and lifestyle changes?
  5. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with the size of the stomach removed during gastric sleeve surgery that I should be aware of?
  6. How can I best prepare myself mentally and physically for the changes in diet and lifestyle that will come after surgery?
  7. Will I need any additional support or resources to help me achieve my weight loss goals after gastric sleeve surgery?
  8. What is the expected recovery time and timeline for weight loss after gastric sleeve surgery?
  9. How often will I need to follow up with you after surgery to monitor my progress and address any concerns?
  10. Are there any specific dietary or exercise recommendations that I should follow based on the size of the stomach removed during surgery?

Reference

Authors: McCracken J, Steinbeisser M, Kharbutli B. Journal: Obes Surg. 2018 Apr;28(4):1002-1006. doi: 10.1007/s11695-017-2975-0. PMID: 29058234