• Innovations in bariatric surgery for weight loss

  • Q. What is bariatric sleeve surgery and why is it a good idea?
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    A. Gastric sleeve surgery is one of the newer bariatric procedures that have been gaining popularity. This surgery might be a good option for you if you have a BMI (body mass index) of 40 or above or if you have a life-threatening problem related to your weight.
    The procedure removes about 85 percent of the stomach. Because of the removal, the stomach isn't able to hold as much food, and therefore aids in weight loss. The sleeve refers to the shape of the stomach after the procedure.
    This procedure also removes the part of the stomach that produces gherlin, a hormone that stimulates appetite. The removal of this hormone doesn't completely rid the person of his or her appetite, but instead lessens it dramatically.
    In gastric sleeve surgery, the bariatric surgeon makes a few small incisions as opposed to the usual one large incision made with general bariatric surgery. This procedure also leaves the bowels and digestive system in-tact, rather than re-routing it as in gastric bypass surgery. Because of this, the gastric sleeve surgery has fewer complications.
    Patients that have undergone gastric sleeve surgery have lost, on average, 55 percent of their excess weight within 18 months following their surgery and have gotten rid of health complications such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Relieving the body of excess weight will truly help it to regain its strength, stamina and overall performance.
    It is important to remember that this surgery is not a quick fix. Proper diet and exercise are still crucial in order to attain and maintain a healthy weight. This surgery will greatly aid that process, but it's still up to the individual to make the change in lifestyle.
    Nicolas Teleo, M.D., heads the bariatric program at Pocono Medical Center with assistance from Gina Santiago, PA-C. Both are board-certified and specialize in bariatric and general surgery. They practice at PMC Physician Associates, General Surgery at Pocono Medical Center in East Stroudsburg.
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