What is Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Sleeve gastrectomy (also know as "gastric sleeve") is a restrictive procedure that permanently reduces the size of the stomach. During the procedure, the surgeon removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind a thin “sleeve” that holds about 15% as much as the original. The procedure leaves the stomach openings intact so that digestion occurs normally.

Sleeve gastrectomy is an alternative to gastric bypass and gastric banding for all patients, but is particularly indicated for patients with a higher BMI or who have other health conditions that put them at high risk for other weight loss surgeries. It can be performed as a stand-alone procedure for most patients. For patients at high risk or with a higher BMI, sleeve gastrectomy is typically performed as the first of a two-part treatment. These patients often undergo a second procedure, typically gastric bypass, to get them to their goal weight.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Procedure