Types of Bariatric Surgery
The Center for Bariatric Surgery & Metabolic Medicine at PMC offers a number of safe and effective bariatric surgery options, performed by skilled, board certified surgeons. Nearly all of the operations performed by our surgeons are performed laparoscopically, using minimally invasive techniques.
Types of Bariatric Surgery Performed at The Center for Bariatric Surgery & Metabolic Medicine
- Gastric Sleeve
Sleeve gastrectomy is a procedure in which approximately 75-80 percent of the stomach is removed, leaving a stomach that resembles a banana in size and shape. Patients feel full after a smaller portion of food.
- Gastric Bypass Surgery
A procedure where a small stomach pouch is created. The small intestine is rearranged so that the lower part of the small intestine is connected to the new stomach pouch. Patients feel full after a smaller portion of food and also absorb fewer calories.
- Adjustable Gastric Banding
A procedure in which the stomach is encircled with a silicone band that restricts food intake. The band is adjustable and reversible.
- Biliopancreatic Diversion
BPD creates a smaller stomach (similar to gastric bypass surgery), but in addition there is less absorption of ingested food inside the intestine.
Minimally Invasive Bariatric Surgery
In the past decade, bariatric surgeons have begun performing several types of bariatric surgery using minimally invasive techniques. Surgeons perform minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgeries through a few tiny incisions rather than one large incision.
During laparoscopic procedures, a laparoscope is inserted into the abdomen. This provides the surgeons with a magnified view on a TV monitor. This offers better visualization throughout the procedure than traditional open surgery, allowing for more precise work.
Additionally, by eliminating the large abdominal incisions, bowel manipulation and extensive dissection, patients enjoy a faster recovery. Further advantages of the laparoscopic approach include less pain following the surgery, less scarring, and an earlier discharge from the hospital.
In addition to laparoscopic options, minimally invasive surgical options for bariatric procedures at PMC may also performed with the da Vinci® Xi Robotic Surgical System.
During robotic-assisted surgery with da Vinci technology, your surgeon sits at a console next to you and operates using tiny instruments through a few small incisions. A camera provides a high-definition, 3D magnified view inside your body. Every hand movement your surgeon makes is translated by the da Vinci System in real-time to bend and rotate the instruments with precision.
Types of Endoscopic Bariatric Procedures Performed at The Center for Bariatric Surgery & Metabolic Medicine
We offer minimally invasive weight-loss procedures for people with obesity who are not candidates for traditional bariatric surgery.
- Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a minimally invasive, endoscopic procedure for weight loss. During ESG, a device is introduced through the mouth to sew the patient’s stomach to about 33 percent of its original size. The limited stomach capacity helps patients feel fuller more quickly when eating, reducing their caloric intake and aiding in weight loss. ESG typically results in a 15 percent total body weight loss. - Transoral Outlet Reduction
Transoral Outlet Reduction (TORe) is a minimally invasive, endoscopic procedure for weight loss for patients who previously had a gastric bypass and had weight regain. During the procedure, a device is introduced through the mouth to sew the gastric pouch to regain the sensation of fullness. TORe has proven to bring about weight loss in the majority of patients, and to benefit blood pressure and metabolic indices. - Intragastric Balloon
During intragastric balloon implantation, a deflated latex-free silicone balloon is passed through the mouth and esophagus and into the stomach. The intragastric balloon in the stomach is then filled (to about the size of a grapefruit) – taking up space in the stomach – which helps patients feel full. The balloon is later removed via endoscopy after 6 months. When combined with lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and improved diet, the intragastric balloon can help patients lose up to 25 percent of their body weight.
Similar to surgery, endoscopic bariatric procedures can lead to significant weight loss, with the amount of weight lost being dependent on the level of commitment to changing diet and exercise habits.
While most insurance providers cover transoral outlet reduction (TORe), not all insurance plans cover intragastric balloon and endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG). Please contact your insurance provider to see if your specific plan covers endobariatric procedures.
Reversibility of Bariatric Procedures
The LAP-BAND and gastric bypass procedures are both potentially reversible. Reversal requires an operation of the same magnitude and risk as the original procedure. Reversal of other bariatric operations, such as the gastric sleeve, is rare.
Bariatric endoscopic procedures are incisionless and can be reversed if necessary. They also do not disqualify you from a future bariatric surgery if one is needed to help you reach your weight-loss and lifestyle goals.
Our surgeons are ready to help you decide which bariatric procedure is right for you.
To request a consultation, please call 609.785.5870 or use the Book Appointment button below.