John Muir Health
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What is Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Sleeve Gastrectomy, also called Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, is a basic weight loss surgery procedure that staples off and removes approximately 75 percent of the stomach to create a sleeve-shaped stomach which restricts food intake. The new stomach holds about 4 to 5 ounces of food at a time. The natural pyloric valve between the stomach and intestine is not altered, so it is rare for patients to have food blockage problems. However, if the patient eats too fast or takes in too much at one time, vomiting may occur. This procedure does not bypass any intestine, so calorie absorption is not changed. Thus, the weight loss success of the Sleeve Gastrectomy is highly dependent on how motivated the patient is to follow dietary and exercise recommendations. The advantages of this procedure over Gastric Bypass or Duodenal Switch include a lower risk of surgical complications and long term nutritional deficiencies.