An overview of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is a minimally invasive weight-loss procedure. It involves reducing the size of the stomach using a suturing device inserted through the throat. The procedure is done under general anesthesia and takes 60 to 90 minutes. It is performed in the endoscopy unit as an outpatient procedure. After the procedure, the patient is monitored in a recovery room. This procedure is typically reserved for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher who have not been successful in maintaining weight loss through lifestyle changes alone and do not qualify or wish to pursue traditional bariatric surgery.
What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty used for?
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is a minimally invasive weight-loss procedure used for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher who have not been successful in maintaining weight loss with lifestyle modifications and do not qualify or wish to pursue traditional bariatric surgery. This procedure is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. It involves inserting a suturing device into the throat and stomach to reduce the stomach's size, limiting food intake and promoting weight loss. It may also help improve conditions related to obesity, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Patients must be willing to commit to healthy lifestyle changes, regular medical follow-up, and participate in behavioral therapy for the best results.
How to prepare for Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?
Before undergoing an endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, patients typically need to follow specific preparation steps. These may include:
- Consultation with a healthcare provider: Patients should consult with their doctor or a qualified specialist to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
- Lab tests and exams: The healthcare team may require various lab tests and exams to assess the patient's overall health and evaluate any potential risks associated with the procedure.
- Diet and nutrition guidelines: Patients may be provided with dietary and nutrition guidelines to follow in the weeks leading up to the procedure. This may include avoiding certain foods or consuming specific nutrients to optimize health before surgery.
- Medication management: Patients may be advised to stop taking certain medications or supplements that could increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure. They may also be instructed to continue taking other medications as prescribed.
- Physical activity program: Patients may be encouraged to engage in a supervised exercise program to improve their overall health and prepare for the physical demands of recovery.
- Lifestyle modification: Patients may need to demonstrate a commitment to making long-term lifestyle changes, including adopting a healthier diet and increasing their physical activity levels. It's essential to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
How is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty conducted?
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is a surgical procedure performed using an endoscope. It is not a test. The procedure is done as an outpatient surgery under general anesthesia. The doctor inserts the endoscope down the patient's throat and into their stomach to perform the suturing, changing the stomach's shape and restricting food intake. It is typically performed on individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher who have not successfully lost weight through diet and exercise.
How are Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty results reported?
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty results are typically reported in terms of weight loss and improvements in related health conditions. The procedure leads to significant weight loss, with patients experiencing 15% to 20% total body weight loss at 12 to 24 months after the procedure. The results may vary from person to person, but generally, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty helps in improving conditions often related to being overweight, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, severe sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and osteoarthritis (joint pain). It is important to note that weight-loss results can be impacted by the individual's commitment to following the recommended lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
Understanding the report
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty results are interpreted based on the amount of weight loss and improvement in health conditions related to obesity. The procedure is designed to restrict food intake, leading to weight loss. Significant weight loss is considered a successful outcome. Additionally, improvements in conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and joint pain are also indicators of a positive result. However, individual results may vary, and success depends on the patient's commitment to lifestyle changes and follow-up care. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to evaluate your specific situation and determine if endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is a suitable option for you.
Limitations and Considerations
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is not appropriate for individuals with a large hiatal hernia or a condition associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, such as gastritis or peptic ulcer disease. Additionally, it may not be covered by most health insurance plans.