Our Summary
This research paper discusses a study conducted on a minimally invasive weight loss procedure called Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG). This procedure reduces the size of the stomach and was investigated for its long-term effects on weight loss and digestion in obese patients.
The study involved 25 obese patients, mainly women, with an average body mass index of 35.5. They underwent ESG over a period of about 2.5 years at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. The patients were then monitored for an average of 9 months.
The results showed that patients lost more than half of their excess weight in the first year after the procedure. At three months post-procedure, endoscopy showed that the reduced stomach size was maintained in all subjects. Furthermore, a small group of patients showed that ESG led to lower calorie consumption, slower digestion of solid foods, and a possible increase in insulin sensitivity.
However, there were three serious complications among the patients, including inflammation around the stomach, a lung clot, and a small lung collapse. These patients fully recovered without the need for further surgical interventions.
Thus, the study concludes that ESG can significantly reduce body weight by making individuals feel full sooner and slowing down digestion. It suggests that ESG could be an alternative to more invasive bariatric surgery for selected obese patients.
FAQs
- What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) and how does it aid in weight loss?
- What were the results of the study conducted on obese patients who underwent ESG?
- Were there any complications observed in the patients who underwent the ESG procedure?
Doctor’s Tip
A doctor might tell a patient considering gastric sleeve surgery that it can significantly reduce body weight by making them feel full sooner and slowing down digestion. It could be an alternative to more invasive bariatric surgery for selected obese patients. However, patients should be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure, such as inflammation around the stomach and blood clots. It is important to discuss these risks with your healthcare provider and carefully weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks before making a decision.
Suitable For
Overall, patients recommended for gastric sleeve surgery, including ESG, are typically those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35-39.9 with obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Patients who have been unsuccessful in losing weight through diet and exercise alone may also be recommended for gastric sleeve surgery.
It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if they are a suitable candidate for gastric sleeve surgery. This evaluation may include a physical exam, medical history review, psychological evaluation, and discussions about the risks and benefits of the procedure. Additionally, patients must be committed to making lifestyle changes post-surgery, including adopting a healthy diet and exercise routine to ensure long-term weight loss success.
Overall, gastric sleeve surgery, including ESG, can be a highly effective treatment option for obese patients who have struggled to lose weight through traditional means. However, it is important for patients to work closely with their healthcare team to determine if this procedure is the right choice for them.
Timeline
Before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, a patient typically goes through a series of steps including consultations with a healthcare provider, evaluations to determine if they are a candidate for the procedure, pre-surgery preparations such as dietary changes and psychological evaluations, and discussions about the potential risks and benefits of the surgery.
After the surgery, patients typically spend a few days in the hospital for monitoring and recovery. They will follow a strict post-operative diet and exercise plan to aid in healing and promote weight loss. Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare team will be scheduled to monitor progress, address any concerns, and make adjustments as needed. Over time, patients will experience significant weight loss, improved overall health, and increased confidence and quality of life. It is important for patients to continue with lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating and regular exercise, to maintain their weight loss and continue to see long-term benefits from the surgery.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about gastric sleeve (ESG) include:
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with ESG?
- How long will it take to recover from the procedure and what is the expected downtime?
- Will I need to make any permanent dietary or lifestyle changes after ESG?
- How much weight can I expect to lose with ESG and what are the long-term effects on weight loss?
- Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or follow-up appointments after ESG?
- How will ESG impact my digestion and ability to absorb nutrients?
- Are there any specific foods or medications I should avoid after ESG?
- How will ESG affect my overall health and well-being in the long term?
- What is the success rate of ESG in terms of weight loss and maintenance?
- Are there any alternative weight loss options or procedures I should consider before deciding on ESG?
Reference
Authors: Abu Dayyeh BK, Acosta A, Camilleri M, Mundi MS, Rajan E, Topazian MD, Gostout CJ. Journal: Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2017 Jan;15(1):37-43.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.cgh.2015.12.030. Epub 2015 Dec 31. PMID: 26748219