Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty and gastric sleeve are two popular weight loss procedures that can help individuals achieve significant and sustained weight reduction. Both procedures offer effective solutions for individuals struggling with obesity and its associated health risks. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty and gastric sleeve, including the procedures themselves, eligibility criteria, recovery times, benefits, and the importance of post-operative guidelines for successful outcomes.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty: An overview
How does endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty work?
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, also known as ESG or Apollo OverStitch, is a minimally invasive procedure that involves reducing the stomach size using an endoscope. The
endoscope is inserted through the mouth and into the stomach, where sutures or special devices are used to create a smaller, tubular-shaped stomach. This restricts the amount of food the stomach can hold, leading to a feeling of fullness with smaller portion sizes.
Are you a good candidate for endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty?
Endoscopic gastroplasty is generally suitable for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) higher than 27, who have not achieved significant weight loss through diet and exercise alone. It is considered a less invasive alternative to traditional bariatric surgeries and can be ,recommended as an alternative to gastric balloon.
What is the recovery time after an endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty?
The recovery time for endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is relatively shorter compared to invasive surgeries. Most individuals can resume normal activities within a few days, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks.
Sleeve gastrectomy (gastric sleeve): An overview
How does sleeve gastrectomy work?
Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery, is a surgical procedure that involves removing a large portion of the stomach to create a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. The procedure is typically performed laparoscopically, with small incisions and the use of specialised instruments. The reduced stomach size restricts food intake and promotes weight loss.
Are you a good candidate for gastric sleeve?
Sleeve gastrectomy is suitable for individuals with a higher BMI, typically above 40 or with obesity-related health conditions. It is often recommended for those who have not achieved successful weight loss through non-surgical methods.
What’s recovery like after gastric sleeve?
The recovery time for sleeve gastrectomy is generally longer compared to endoscopic gastroplasty. Most individuals can expect to return to normal activities within two to four weeks, with gradual reintroduction of solid foods over time as advised by your doctor.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty and gastric sleeve: What’s the difference?
How patients are considered eligible
In order to be eligible for gastric sleeve, patients should have a BMI higher than 40. Individuals with a BMI higher than 35 may also be eligible if there are other conditions related to obesity. You can calculate your BMI here Ideal candidates for an endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty have a BMI higher than 27. ESG may also be recommended to individuals with higher BMI who need to lose some weight before undergoing bariatric surgery (e.g. gastric sleeve).
How the surgeon treats the stomach
While both procedures aim to make your stomach smaller, they work in two completely different ways. During a gastric sleeve, the surgeon will remove around two thirds of your stomach. This means that gastric sleeve surgery is irreversible. On the other hand, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty works by stitching the stomach walls together from the inside. No parts of the stomach are removed. This procedure is reversible as the doctor can remove the non-absorbable stitches placed within a certain timeframe.
How surgery is performed
Gastric sleeve surgery is performed using a laparoscopic technique; endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is performed endoscopically. Let’s have a look at how these two procedures differ. Laparoscopy: The surgeon creates a few small incisions in the abdomen to access the stomach. A laparoscope is used to perform the procedure; thanks to the tiny camera attached, the surgeon is able to view the organs in the abdomen and perform surgery. Laparoscopy is more invasive than endoscopy. Endoscopy: This is a nonsurgical procedure used to inspect a patient’s digestive tract. The doctor uses an endoscope that carries a camera and a suturing device to perform the procedure. The endoscope is inserted in the mouth of the patient until it reaches theirstomach.
Recovery and surgery time
Both endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty and gastric sleeve last around 1-2 hours, but gastric sleeve surgery, on average, is a longer operation. Creating the incisions for the laparoscopic procedure and administering gas into the abdomen are two extra steps that take a bit longer. Moreover, as endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is carried out without making any incisions, recovery from this procedure is typically faster. Patients are able to leave the hospital on the same day or the next day. Gastric sleeve surgery, on the other hand, requires on average a 3-day hospital stay.
Why have endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty or gastric sleeve?
Endoscopic gastroplasty and gastric sleeve are effective weight loss procedures that can bring significant benefits to individuals struggling with obesity. While endoscopic gastroplasty offers a less invasive alternative with shorter recovery times, sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical procedure suitable for individuals with higher BMI. Both procedures provide substantial weight loss, improve obesity-related health conditions, and enhance quality of life. Adhering to post-operative guidelines and following the doctor’s orders are essential for successful outcomes and long-term weight management. Taking the first step is not easy and we understand that. If you need more information or would like to consult with our specialists,contact us anytime !
