A surgical procedure referred to as vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) aims to aid weight loss by significantly reducing the size of the stomach.

A surgical procedure referred to as vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) aims to aid weight loss by significantly reducing the size of the stomach.

Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), a popular weight loss surgery, is known for its ability to help individuals achieve substantial weight loss in a relatively short period. The procedure, which significantly reduces the size of the stomach, has been shown to be effective in managing obesity and its related health issues.

The cost of VSG varies considerably, with the average cost being $14,389 and ranging between $7,423 and $33,541. This wide range is due to factors such as location, hospital charges, and insurance coverage.

VSG is a non-reversible procedure, meaning that once it has been performed, it cannot be undone. The procedure is straightforward, with a shorter operating time than other procedures, and it preserves the sphincter at the bottom of the stomach and bowel integrity. It can act as an initial step before more drastic weight loss procedures such as gastric bypass surgery.

After VSG, patients often achieve rapid weight loss within the first two years, reaching their goal weight generally by then. At 1-year post-op, the average excess weight loss is about 65%, but it decreases slightly to about 53-55% by the 5-year mark, indicating some degree of weight regain after the initial maximum loss. These percentages reflect enduring weight loss but suggest a small, gradual regain over time.

While the exact rate of weight regain is not always specified, the decline from 65% EWL at 1 year to approximately 53-55% at 5 years implies a regain in the range of roughly 10-12% of excess weight lost during the intermediate years post-surgery.

Comparatively, gastric bypass patients tend to lose 50-70% of excess weight for years afterward but can also experience some regain. No specific, detailed statistics about 10+ year regain rates for VSG were found, but the 5-year data indicates durable weight loss with some mild regain occurring after the initial rapid loss phase.

VSG carries risks such as blood clots, internal bleeding, infection of the surgical site, leakage from the newly-formed stomach, hernia, severe gastroesophageal reflux, and regaining lost weight. People who undergo sleeve gastrectomy typically regain 5.7% of their original weight 2 years after the procedure, with the figure potentially reaching 75.6% at 6 years following surgery.

Despite these risks, VSG can help people lose weight within a short time, resulting in reduction in BMI, weight, blood pressure, and the risk of stroke and cancer. Most people stay in the hospital for 1-2 nights following VSG surgery. A cholecystectomy may be recommended before or during VSG surgery to remove the gallbladder.

A person may qualify for VSG if they have a BMI of 40 or above, or a BMI of 35 or above with obesity-related conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, severely limiting musculoskeletal problems, uncontrollable type 2 diabetes, or metabolic syndrome.

After the surgery, an individual needs to follow a special liquid diet for several weeks, gradually moving on to soft foods and eventually solid foods. The VSG procedure takes around 60-90 minutes and involves creating several small incisions, inserting a laparoscope and surgical instruments, pumping gas into the abdomen, removing a large portion of the stomach pouch, joining the remaining portion with surgical staples, and leaving a long, vertical tube of the stomach intact.

Most major insurance companies cover weight loss surgery, including VSG procedures, but some policies may exclude weight loss surgery. The first follow-up appointment usually takes place within 2-3 weeks of the surgery. Before VSG surgery, a person receives general anesthesia.

Some medical expenses a person is likely to incur include hospital admission, laboratory testing, imaging, operating room fees, postsurgical costs, medication costs. It is crucial for individuals considering VSG to review their policy documents carefully before confirming the surgery. A study of 156 patients who underwent VSG found the surgery was associated with a 0% mortality rate.

People may experience significant improvements in obesity-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver, heart disease, and obstructive sleep apnea. It is essential to note that drinking plenty of fluids is vital, and a person must consume around 60-100 grams of protein each day to prevent weakness and muscle loss.

In summary, vertical sleeve gastrectomy typically results in rapid, substantial weight loss that is mostly maintained over 5 years, with modest weight regain evident over time. As with any surgical procedure, it is crucial to understand the risks and benefits before making a decision.

1. The predictive weight loss after Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) surgery is substantial, with an average excess weight loss of about 65% at 1-year post-op.
2. Diabetes mellitus is one of the obesity-related medical-conditions that may qualify a person for VSG, along with a BMI of 40 or above.
3. Careful review of insurance policy documents is essential to understand coverage for weight loss surgery, including Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy procedures.
4. After VSG, seekers might need to follow a special diet, starting with a liquid diet for several weeks and gradually transitioning to soft foods and solid foods.
5. Nutrition is critical for weight management after VSG, and individuals are advised to consume around 60-100 grams of protein each day to prevent weakness and muscle loss.
6. Bariatric surgery like VSG can help manage chronic diseases such as depression and COPD by reducing weight and improving overall health and wellness.
7. Type 2 diabetes can show significant improvement post-VSG surgery, making it a compelling treatment option for switchers who struggle to manage the condition through traditional methods.
8. Obesity-related health issues, such as high blood pressure and heart disease, can be effectively managed through VSG surgery along with the accompanying lifestyle changes.
9. Though VSG carries risks such as blood clots and internal bleeding, it can also lead to a reduction in BMI, weight, blood pressure, and the risk of stroke and cancer.
10. Research in the field of science indicates that VSG can provide durable weight loss for up to 5 years after the initial rapid loss phase, with some degree of weight regain after that period.

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