Our Summary

Bariatric surgery is currently the most effective method for treating obesity. There are many types of these surgeries, but most of them involve significant changes to the digestive system, which can lead to complications. To reduce these risks, surgeons have started exploring new types of surgery called gastric plication surgeries.

Gastric plication surgeries include various procedures such as folding parts of the stomach and reshaping the stomach using an endoscope. The effectiveness and risk of complications from these surgeries fall somewhere between drug therapy and a traditional weight loss surgery called sleeve gastrectomy.

One of the gastric plication surgeries, gastric fundoplication, can also help with acid reflux, a common issue in obese people. This procedure and others like it have been shown to result in favorable weight loss.

Moreover, gastric plication surgeries can be combined with other techniques. For example, combining gastric fundoplication with sleeve gastrectomy or a procedure that folds the greater curve of the stomach can reduce body weight and lessen reflux. Combining the greater curve folding procedure with gastric bypass can also enhance weight loss and improve metabolism.

FAQs

  1. What is gastric plication surgery and how does it differ from traditional bariatric surgery?
  2. Can gastric plication surgeries help with acid reflux in obese individuals?
  3. How can combining gastric plication surgeries with other techniques enhance weight loss and improve metabolism?

Doctor’s Tip

When undergoing a gastric sleeve procedure, it is important to follow a strict diet and exercise plan provided by your healthcare team. This will help maximize weight loss and prevent complications. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns or changes in your health to your doctor. Remember, bariatric surgery is a tool to help you achieve your weight loss goals, but it is still important to make healthy lifestyle choices to maintain long-term success.

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. It is also recommended for patients who have tried other weight loss methods without success.

Additionally, patients who are committed to making lifestyle changes, including adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise, are good candidates for gastric sleeve surgery. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations and understand the potential risks and benefits of the surgery.

Overall, gastric sleeve surgery is recommended for patients who are severely obese and have not been able to lose weight through other means. It is important for patients to consult with a bariatric surgeon to determine if they are a suitable candidate for this type of surgery.

Timeline

Before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, a patient will typically go through a series of steps:

  1. Consultation with a bariatric surgeon to determine eligibility for surgery and discuss the risks and benefits.
  2. Pre-operative evaluations such as blood tests, imaging studies, and consultations with other healthcare providers if necessary.
  3. Pre-surgical preparation which may include following a special diet, quitting smoking, and stopping certain medications.
  4. The day of surgery, the patient will be admitted to the hospital, undergo the surgery, and recover in the hospital for a few days.

After gastric sleeve surgery, the patient will experience the following timeline:

  1. Immediately post-surgery: The patient will be closely monitored in the hospital for any complications and will start on a liquid diet.
  2. 1-2 weeks post-surgery: The patient will transition to a pureed diet and begin light physical activity.
  3. 3-4 weeks post-surgery: The patient will start eating soft foods and continue to increase physical activity.
  4. 6 weeks post-surgery: The patient will start eating solid foods and should be able to resume normal activities.
  5. 6-12 months post-surgery: The patient will continue to follow up with their bariatric team, make dietary and lifestyle changes, and monitor weight loss progress.
  6. Long-term: The patient will need to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to ensure long-term success and prevent weight regain.

Overall, gastric sleeve surgery can lead to significant weight loss and improvement in obesity-related health conditions, but it requires dedication to lifestyle changes and ongoing follow-up care.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about gastric sleeve surgery may include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with gastric sleeve surgery?
  2. What is the expected weight loss outcome following gastric sleeve surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after gastric sleeve surgery?
  4. Will I need to make any significant lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  5. How will my diet need to change after gastric sleeve surgery?
  6. What kind of follow-up care will be necessary after the surgery?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or potential complications I should be aware of?
  8. How does gastric sleeve surgery compare to other bariatric surgery options?
  9. Will I need to take any supplements or medications following the surgery?
  10. What is the success rate of gastric sleeve surgery in terms of weight loss and overall health improvement?

Reference

Authors: Cao C, Xu B, Yao QY. Journal: Zhonghua Wei Chang Wai Ke Za Zhi. 2023 Nov 25;26(11):1082-1087. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.cn441530-20230411-00119. PMID: 37974355