Procedures

During this procedure, a part of the stomach is removed, permanently reducing the stomach to about 25% of its original size. The surgeon creates a new tube-shaped stomach or “gastric sleeve.” With a smaller stomach you will feel fuller more quickly. Weight loss is induced because the food intake will be restricted. This procedure is irreversible and usually performed laparoscopically.

During this procedure, among the most common bariatric surgical procedures, the surgeon divides the stomach into two parts (one small and one large) then uses staples or vertical banding to create a small pouch from the upper part of the stomach. The small pouch is then directly attached to the small intestine bypassing the rest of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. This limits the amount of food that can be eaten and reduces the fat and calories that can be absorbed. The larger part of the stomach will remain intact to produce digestive juices. This surgery is usually performed laparoscopically.

Bariatric surgical procedures are very effective and have a high rate of success; however, if a patient does not stick to a strict diet and an exercise regimen, there is a possibility that they can regain 50% of the weight they have lost. If the volume of food that a patient is consuming has increased over a period of time, chances are the size of the gastric pouch may have also increased. With gastric revision, surgeons restore the capacity of the gastric pouch.

Lap band surgery is one of the simplest forms of surgery on the stomach, as there is no cutting or stapling of the stomach or small intestine involved. This is a minimally invasive procedure that aids in weight loss and is performed laparoscopically. The surgeon places an inflatable silicone band along the upper part of the stomach, which is secured by sutures. The band will be adjusted by injecting a small amount of saline solution into a port. A small pouch will be created, which will restrict the amount of food you are able to eat.

During this laparoscopic weight loss procedure, a moderately sized stomach pouch is created, restricting the amount of food you can eat. This section of the stomach is then attached to the first segment of the small intestine (the duodenum). The duodenum will be separated from the rest of the small intestine (second and third segments) and attached to the lowest segment of the small intestine. This allows food to bypass the second and third segments of the small intestine so that you absorb fewer calories.