Sleeve Gastrectomy is a restrictive weight loss surgery, in which approximately 70% of the stomach is removed leaving a “banana” shaped tube. There is no rerouting of the intestines and thus most of the malnutrition syndromes common with the Gastric Bypass are avoided.

It was originally devised as the first stage of a two stage procedure.  After a period of time it was followed by a Gastric Bypass or Duodenal Switch Procedure. However, recently it has been used successfully as a stand-alone procedure.

It is done as an inpatient procedure, usually staying overnight. Leaks from the staple line and narrowing of the tube are the main complications. It is not reversible. Weight loss is between that of the adjustable gastric bands and the gastric bypass in rapidity of weight loss.

Co-morbidities, such as diabetes- type 2, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and high cholesterol, are found to resolve at rates similar to other weight loss surgery procedures.