Gastric Sleeve

The Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is only performed by a limited number of surgeons worldwide, and 2-3 of those surgeons are at DMC Harper University Hospital. It is an operation in which the left side of the stomach is surgically removed, resulting in a new stomach which is roughly the size and shape of a banana. Since this operation does not require any “rerouting” or reconnecting the intestines, it is a simpler operation than the gastric bypass and unlike the lap band procedure, the sleeve gastrectomy does not require the implantation of an artificial device inside the abdomen.

Certain individuals with a lower BMI that are considering weight loss surgery may want to consider the Sleeve Gastrectomy because:

• They are concerned about the potential long term side effects of an intestinal bypass.
• They are considering a gastric band (Lap-Band® or REALIZE Banding Solution) but are concerned about a foreign body in their abdomen or frequent adjustments to the band.
• They have other medical problems that prevent them from having weight loss surgery such as anemia, Crohn’s disease, extensive prior surgery, severe asthma requiring frequent steroid use and other complex medical conditions.
• They need to take anti-inflammatory medications.

For some patients, such as those with a body mass index greater than 60, the sleeve gastrectomy may be the first part of a 2 stage operation.

For additional information visit our Gastric Sleeve FAQ.