Sara Trombley, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy patient
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, also known as the gastric sleeve, was first introduced in 2005, and we’ve been performing the procedure since 2008. As of March 2011, we’ve performed 65 gastric sleeve procedures and are pleased with the results.
Melody Helms, who is both a Foothills patient and employee, lost 200 pounds following her gastric sleeve in March 2009. She’s maintaining her weight loss through exercise and making good food choices.
Sara Trombley lost 146 pounds following her gastric sleeve surgery in February 2008. About Foothills Weight Loss Specialists, she says, “They not only gave me back my life but gave me a life I didn’t think possible.”
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy involves surgically removing 85 percent or more of the stomach, resulting in a new stomach roughly the size and shape of a banana. The procedure generates weight loss by restricting the amount of food (and therefore calories) that can be consumed. Also, because the procedure removes the portion of the stomach that produces ghrelin, the hormone responsible for appetite and hunger, the level of ghrelin decreases, resulting in a reduced appetite.
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy differs from gastric banding procedures in that it does not require implantation of an artificial device, and it is not reversible.
The following are some of its advantages:
- Although the stomach is reduced in size and the amount of food that can be consumed is restricted, the stomach otherwise functions normally and most foods can be eaten in small amounts.
- There is no disconnecting or reconnecting of the intestines, which lessens the risk of complications.
- Because there is no intestinal bypass, patients are not expected to have complications associated with that procedure, which might include intestinal obstruction, “dumping syndrome,” anemia, osteoporosis, vitamin deficiency and protein deficiency.
- The procedure is performed laparoscopically – even on patients weighing more than 500 pounds.
If you’re considering laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy or any other weight loss surgery option, register for a free informational seminar to determine which procedure is the best fit for you.