Sleeve Gastrectomy

What is the Sleeve Gastrectomy?

The Gastric Sleeve Procedure is a “Restrictive Operation” that permanently reduces the stomach size, thereby reducing the amount of food that can be consumed. It is accomplished by surgically removing two-thirds of the stomach, ultimately leaving approximately 25% of the remaining stomach in a shape of a long-tube or commonly referred to as a “Sleeve”. Besides the decrease in the stomach size, it also dramatically decreases the amount of “Ghrelin” hormone production by the stomach. Ghrelin is the hormone that triggers hunger and cravings. The combined effect of this procedure helps patients reduce appetite/cravings and feel satisfied with smaller meals, thereby leading to long-term weight-loss.

How is this Procedure Performed?

The procedure is performed minimally invasive via small puncture incisions, commonly known as Laparoscopic. Performing this procedure laparoscopically reduces post-surgery pain, scarring, and lead to faster recovery time and earlier return to work or activities. Dr. Teng was the first Bariatric Surgeon to perform this operation with the Da Vinci Robot in the State of Nevada.

Benefits of Gastric Sleeve:

Gastric Sleeve does not require cutting or repositioning of the small intestines, such as the Gastric Bypass. Digestion is not altered, so it does not cause mal-absorption, vitamin deficiencies, or certain food group intolerance. Besides long-term excess weight loss, this procedure can help improve health conditions such as Type-2 Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Sleep Apnea, Chronic Joint Pain, and Chronic GERD/Acid Reflux. Chronic Acid Reflux/Heartburn has contributed to the increase in Esophageal Cancer in the United States by a ~600% incidence in the past several years.

Am I a Candidate?

Any patient who has a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher (at least 100 pounds over his/her ideal body weight) is considered Morbidly Obese. If they have been unable to successfully lose weight via conventional methods of dieting and exercising, they should qualify for surgery. Patient with lesser weight but has a BMI of 35 or greater (at least 50 pounds over his/her ideal body weight) can also qualify if they suffer from serious life-threatening health illness such as Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, High Cholesterol, and Heart Disease.