Gastric Sleeve
This procedure works by restricting food intake without any bypass of the intestines or malabsorption. The stomach is restricted by dividing it vertically, creating a small vertical stomach pouch shaped like a banana. The new stomach pouch measures 2-5 ounces. The remaining part of the stomach is removed. The portion of the stomach that is removed is thought to be responsible for secreting Ghrelin, the hormone that is responsible for appetite and hunger. By removing this portion of the stomach, the appetite hormone is reduced to almost nothing, usually causing a loss of appetite.
The removed part of the stomach is also the portion thought to “stretch” the most. The new stomach pouch holds only small amounts of food, causing the patient to feel full.
The nerves to the stomach remain in tact, preserving the functions of the stomach while reducing the volume it can hold.
