Different types of bariatric procedures

Gastric Balloon, Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass what to choose?

The decision to choose between gastric balloon, gastric sleeve, or gastric bypass depends on a variety of factors, including the patient’s individual medical history, weight loss goals, and lifestyle.

Gastric Balloon: A gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss procedure that involves placing a deflated balloon in the stomach and then filling it with a saline solution. The balloon takes up space in the stomach and limits the amount of food that can be eaten, leading to weight loss. Gastric balloons are a good option for patients who are looking for a non-surgical option and have a BMI between 30-40, and want a more temporary solution as the balloon needs to be removed after a certain period of time.
Gastric Sleeve: A gastric sleeve, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a surgical weight loss procedure that involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller stomach, which limits the amount of food that can be eaten. Gastric sleeve is a good option for patients who have a BMI between 30-50 and are looking for a more permanent solution, however it’s not reversible.
Gastric Bypass: Gastric bypass, also known as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is a surgical weight loss procedure that involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine to this new pouch. Gastric bypass is a more complex procedure and is typically recommended for patients who have a BMI of 40 or more, or a BMI of 35 or more with one or more obesity-related conditions such as diabetes or sleep apnea.

It’s important to discuss with a qualified healthcare professional about the different options and which one would be the best fit for you based on your health status, lifestyle, and weight loss goals.

How is bariatric surgery or obesity surgery performed?

The specific details of how bariatric surgery is performed will depend on the type of surgery being performed. However, in general, the surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes several hours.

Gastric Bypass: This procedure involves creating a small stomach pouch by stapling a portion of the stomach. The small intestine is then rerouted to this new pouch, which limits the amount of food that can be eaten and reduces the absorption of calories.
Sleeve Gastrectomy This procedure involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller stomach, which limits the amount of food that can be eaten. The stomach is reduced to a banana-shaped sleeve, which is created by stapling the stomach.
Adjustable Gastric Banding: This procedure involves placing an adjustable band around the stomach to create a small stomach pouch, which limits the amount of food that can be eaten. The band can be adjusted or removed by injecting or removing saline solution.
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS): This procedure involves removing a portion of the stomach, similar to sleeve gastrectomy, but also reroutes the small intestine to a new location.
VBloc Therapy: This procedure involves implanting a device that blocks nerve signals between the brain and stomach, which helps to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness.
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) : This is a non-surgical procedure where an endoscope is used to place sutures in the stomach to create a smaller stomach and reduce the amount of food that can be eaten.
Gastric Balloon: This is a non-invasive procedure where a balloon is placed in the stomach. It is then filled with water or air to reduce the effective volume of the stomach.

It’s important to note that different types of bariatric surgery are performed differently as well as have different recovery times and post-operative care requirements. Most bariatric surgeries are done via minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy.