Bariatric Surgery: Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy

The procedure

This surgery can be done in 1 of 2 ways:

• Laparoscopic surgery. Small incisions are made in your upper belly. A tube with a tiny camera that sends images to a video screen is put into 1 of these incisions. Small surgery tools are put into the other small incisions. The surgeon works by looking at the organs on the video screen. Almost all sleeve gastrectomy surgery is now done this way. 

• Open surgery. This is also called laparotomy . One larger incision is made in the middle of the upper belly. The surgeon sees and works through this incision. Most cases are not done this way now. This is because the laparoscopic way uses smaller cuts. It causes less harm to tissues and fewer problems. 

During the surgery, the stomach is cut lengthwise (up and down) with a tool that staples as it cuts. The larger part of the stomach is removed. The side of the remaining stomach (the sleeve) is closed off with staples made from stainless steel or titanium.

 Preventing gallstones

Bariatric surgery is done to cause a large amount of weight loss. Weight loss can cause gallstones. If you already have gallstones, your gallbladder may be removed during your surgery. Or it may be removed at a later date. This is to prevent gallstones from forming. 

All types of bariatric surgery have different advantages and disadvantages. Be sure to discuss the risks and complications of this surgery and any other choices with your healthcare provider.