Gastrectomy, in its most basic terms, refers to the partial or complete removal of the stomach. This surgical intervention comes into play to treat various stomach problems, primarily if they are severe or life-threatening, such as stomach cancer, non-cancerous tumors, and severe gastric ulcers. The procedure might also be in contemplation for those with obesity.
A gastrectomy procedure depends on the patients’ health condition and the type or extent of disease. Complete or total gastrectomy involves the removal of the entire stomach. Partial gastrectomy, otherwise, implies that only a diseased portion of the stomach is surgically removed. Both procedures directly affect the patient’s food intake and require dietary changes post-operation.
In the advent of technological advancements, open surgery has been replaced by laparoscopic procedures. The laparoscopic gastrectomy is less invasive, leading to smaller incisions, lesser pain, and faster recovery time.
One of the widely practiced types of this procedure is the ‘Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy CA.’
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy CA, a type of weight-loss surgery, involves removing approximately 75-80% of the stomach. This leaves the stomach in a banana-shaped tube or “sleeve” which cannot hold as much food. Besides, it also prompts hormonal changes that help with weight loss. The newly shaped stomach rekindles the physiological and mechanical functions. The procedure is mostly performed on patients who are extremely obese, have a BMI over 40, or have weight-related health problems.
After a Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy CA, the individual can only consume a limited volume of food. Since the ghrelin hormone (that triggers hunger) production is reduced, the appetite is significantly less. This aids weight loss. However, one must note that the procedure is not reversible like gastric banding and requires a proactive, healthy lifestyle to maintain the results.
Risks associated with this surgery may include infection, adverse reactions to anesthesia, blood clots, breathing problems, leakage from the line where parts of the stomach have been stapled together, albeit these are quite rare. Medium to long-term complications could be malnutrition due to less nutrient absorption and heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux.
Generally, patients who underwent Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy CA observed substantial weight loss 18-24 months post-surgery. Also, health conditions associated with obesity- including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea- got markedly improved.
However, drastic weight loss due to Sleeve Gastrectomy could result in noticeable saggy skin in areas like the arms, breasts, thighs, and abdomen. Plastic surgery may be considered to re-form these areas after the weight loss has stabilized.
In conclusion, Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy CA proves to be a potent tool in managing and treating obesity, having both beneficial and potential downside aspects. It empowers patients to achieve long-term weight loss and improve obesity-related conditions. However, it requires the individual to commit to lifelong changes in their food habits and lifestyle, accompanied by regular medical check-ups.
As in every surgical procedure, the benefit-risk profile should be meticulously evaluated, the best course of intervention should be personalized, and the decision should be made after a thorough discussion with the doctor, keeping patient well-being at the forefront of consideration.