Benefits of gastric sleeve surgery
- Significant and sustained weight loss
- Improvement in co-morbidities
- No “replumbing” of your small bowel. The gastrointestinal tract remains in continuity
- Fewer long term complications compared to gastric bypass surgery
Specific risks of gastric sleeve surgery
- Leak at the staple line: This can happen within the first two weeks after surgery, where the stomach contents leak into the abdomen due to the staple line not healing properly. This might require additional surgery, procedures, and a longer hospital stay.
- stricture (narrowing): Weeks to months after surgery, the sleeve may develop a narrowing around the middle. This can be treated by stretching it with a balloon or placing a temporary tube (stent) for 4 weeks. In rare cases, revision surgery may be needed.
- Acid reflux: Heartburn is a possible symptom. Medicines usually manage it, but sometimes surgery might be necessary.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Despite taking multivitamins, you could still develop deficiencies in specific vitamins or minerals. Additional supplements might be needed. Lifelong follow-up and blood tests are crucial to monitor and address potential deficiencies.
- Port site pain: Pain, especially on the right side of your abdomen (due to stomach removal), may last for several weeks after surgery.
Important Note: This list does not encompass every possible complication.