The primary method of treating obesity is conservative treatment, which aims to modify lifestyle and eating habits. However, for patients struggling with overweight or obesity, surgical treatment is indicated or necessary to reduce stomach volume or absorption. What are the different methods of stomach reduction?
At our clinic, we focus on laparoscopic gastric reduction procedures, which aim to minimize the patient’s invasiveness, facilitate a faster return to daily life, and reduce the risk of post-operative complications. Patient safety is ensured by a team of specialists, consisting of a surgeon, dietitian, psychologist, coordinator, anesthesiologist, and nurses.
The procedure is determined directly with the operating physician based on the patient’s medical history, test results, BMI measurement, and any comorbidities. After the procedure, the patient receives specialized support, including advice from a dietitian and psychologist, and remains in constant contact with their treating physician.
Gastric Reduction Methods at the Mazan Clinic
This is a relatively new gastric bypass procedure that aims to reduce the stomach’s volume by recessing the fundus and the greater curvature into the stomach. The stomach is sutured along its outer curvature, reducing its capacity by approximately 60-80%. Advantages include the procedure’s reversibility, a short hospital stay, and the elimination of the need for partial stomach removal. Disadvantages include more difficult weight loss prediction.
An increasingly popular and successful bariatric procedure, it aims to remove approximately four-fifths of the stomach using endostaplers—this portion is commonly referred to as a cuff. This leaves a narrow sleeve with a capacity of approximately 100-150ml. The opening at the base of the stomach, which regulates the emptying of gastric contents into the small intestine, remains intact, thus preserving gastric function. A smaller stomach means the patient feels full faster and eats fewer meals, which ultimately leads to weight loss.
The final and exceptionally difficult to reverse method of bariatric surgery. This procedure combines features of both restrictive and malabsorptive surgery.
Stomach Reduction Method: Gastric By-Pass
The surgery involves cutting the stomach and dividing it into two distinct parts: the gastric pouch and the part excluded from transit. The small intestine is attached to the smaller part, creating a food loop. The second part of the stomach, along with the duodenum and a portion of the jejunum, is connected to the distal part of the small intestine.
Stomach Reduction Method: Mini Gastric By-Pass
During surgery, a long, narrow pouch with a capacity of approximately 50 ml is removed from the stomach using mechanical sutures to act as a new stomach. A section of approximately 200 cm of the small intestine is then measured out and connected to the newly formed stomach. This method, in addition to significantly limiting food intake, also limits food absorption.
The ORBERA365 gastric balloon is placed in the stomach, allowing for a smaller stomach. It is a soft, silicone balloon filled with saline. Its relatively large volume creates a feeling of fullness even after a small meal. The patient is satiated, so thanks to the balloon, they are unable to consume as much food as before. This method of stomach reduction is non-invasive (non-surgical) and fully reversible. It was designed to support weight loss while simultaneously implementing a balanced diet.