Sleeve Gastrectomy

The sleeve gastrectomy is the most common weight loss (metabolic) operation in New Zealand and now worldwide. The operation reduces the size stomach from a 2 litre capacity to a 50ml long thin tube. The surplus stomach is removed and discarded. No intestine is re-routed. The average excess body weight loss is 70% at one year.

Advantages

• Rapid weight loss as hunger and satiety control is instantaneous. Most people approach goal weight by 12 months
• The integrity of the gastrointestinal tract is maintained so there is less risk of vitamin deficiencies compared to gastric bypass

Disadvantages

• The staple line that secures the divided stomach very occasionally leaks requiring re-hospitalisation and re-intervention
• Gastro-oesophageal reflux can develop after surgery in 20% of patients