Vertical gastrectomy, also known as sleeve surgery or sleeve gastrectomy, is a type of bariatric surgery that is performed to treat morbid obesity, which involves removing the left side of the stomach, resulting in a decrease in the stomach’s ability to store food.Therefore, this surgery can result in a loss of up to 40% of the initial weight.
This surgery is indicated for the treatment of obesity when the use of other more natural forms has not worked even after 2 years or when the person already has a BMI greater than 50 kg / m2.In addition, it can also be performed in patients with a BMI of 35 kg/m2 but who also have heart, respiratory or decompensated diabetes, for example.
See when bariatric surgery is indicated as a form of treatment
Vertical slimming gastrectomy is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia and lasts an average of 2 hours.However, it is common for the person to enter the hospital for at least 3 days.
This surgery is usually performed by laparoscopy, in which small holes are made in the abdomen, through which tubes and instruments are inserted to make small cuts in the stomach, without having to make a large cut in the skin.
During surgery, the doctor makes a vertical cut, cutting the left part of the stomach and leaving the organ in the form of a tube or sleeve, similar to a banana, in this surgery is removed up to 85% of the stomach, making it smaller and causing the person to eat less.
The main advantages of vertical gastrectomy over other types of bariatric surgery are:
In addition, it is a technically simpler surgery than gastric bypass, which allows you to lose weight over several years and with a lower risk of complications.
However, despite all the advantages, it remains a very aggressive technique for the body and without the possibility of reversing, unlike other forms of surgery, such as placing a gastric band or balloon.
Vertical gastrectomy can cause nausea, vomiting and heartburn, however, the most serious complications of this surgery include the onset of a fistula, which is an abnormal connection between the stomach and abdominal cavity, and which can increase the risk of infections.cases, additional surgery may be needed.
Recovery after surgery can take between 6 months and 1 year, with gradual weight loss and the need to make lifestyle changes.
Therefore, the person who has had a gastrectomy should follow the instructions:
All of these precautions must be taken to make recovery less painful and faster. See more specific guidelines on what to do postoperatively after bariatric surgery.