Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery, is a type of bariatric surgery designed to help individuals lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach. At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, our Bariatric Surgery Department offers comprehensive care for patients considering sleeve gastrectomy, providing personalized treatment plans and ongoing support for successful weight loss and improved health.

Procedure:

During sleeve gastrectomy surgery, the surgeon removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving a banana-shaped sleeve or tube-shaped stomach that restricts the amount of food you can eat. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, sleeve gastrectomy does not involve rerouting the intestines, which may lead to fewer complications and nutritional deficiencies.

Symptoms:

After sleeve gastrectomy surgery, patients may experience various symptoms as they adjust to their new stomach size and eating habits. These symptoms can include:

• -Nausea and vomiting: Some patients may experience nausea or vomiting, especially during the initial weeks after surgery, as their stomach adapts to its reduced size and altered digestive function.
• -Dietary changes: Following surgery, patients will need to adhere to a specific dietary plan, starting with clear liquids and gradually progressing to soft and solid foods over several weeks. Eating too quickly or consuming high-calorie, high-fat foods can lead to discomfort or dumping syndrome.
• -Dumping syndrome: Dumping syndrome can occur when food moves too quickly from the stomach into the intestines, resulting in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, weakness, and dizziness. Avoiding sugary or high-calorie foods and eating smaller, more frequent meals can help manage dumping syndrome.
• -Nutritional deficiencies: Sleeve gastrectomy surgery can impact nutrient absorption, leading to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, vitamin B12, and folate. Patients may require lifelong supplementation and regular monitoring of nutrient levels to prevent deficiencies.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis of complications or nutritional deficiencies following sleeve gastrectomy surgery may involve blood tests to assess nutrient levels, imaging studies such as upper gastrointestinal series or endoscopy to evaluate the anatomy of the digestive tract, and clinical assessment of symptoms.

Treatment:

Treatment for symptoms or complications following sleeve gastrectomy surgery depends on the specific issue and may include dietary modifications, medications to manage symptoms such as nausea or reflux, nutritional supplementation, or, in rare cases, revision surgery to address anatomical concerns.

Postoperative Care:

After sleeve gastrectomy surgery, patients require close monitoring and ongoing follow-up with their healthcare team to ensure proper healing, manage symptoms, and support long-term weight loss success. This includes adherence to dietary recommendations, regular physical activity, and attendance at scheduled appointments for monitoring and support.

 

How much weight can I expect to lose after sleeve gastrectomy surgery?

Weight loss following sleeve gastrectomy surgery varies from person to person but typically ranges from 50% to 70% of excess body weight within the first year after surgery.

 

Will I need to take vitamin supplements after sleeve gastrectomy surgery?

Yes, patients will need to take vitamin and mineral supplements, including multivitamins, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iron, to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

 

What dietary changes will I need to make after sleeve gastrectomy surgery?

Patients will need to follow a specific dietary plan, starting with clear liquids and gradually progressing to soft and solid foods over several weeks. It’s essential to focus on high-protein, low-fat foods and avoid sugary or high-calorie foods to support weight loss.

 

What is dumping syndrome, and how can I prevent it?

Dumping syndrome occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, weakness, and dizziness. To prevent dumping syndrome, patients should eat smaller, more frequent meals, avoid sugary foods and beverages, and chew food thoroughly.

 

How soon can I return to normal activities after sleeve gastrectomy surgery?

Recovery time varies for each patient, but most individuals can return to light activities within a few weeks after surgery and gradually increase activity levels as tolerated. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided during the initial recovery period.

 

What are the potential risks and complications of sleeve gastrectomy surgery?

While sleeve gastrectomy surgery is generally safe, it carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, leaks at the surgical site, blood clots, and nutritional deficiencies. Patients should discuss these risks with their surgeon before undergoing surgery.

 

Will I need to follow up with a dietitian after sleeve gastrectomy surgery?

Yes, regular follow-up with a dietitian is essential to ensure proper nutrition, monitor weight loss progress, and address any dietary concerns or challenges that may arise after surgery.