Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
                    This is a relatively new approach. It is the first component of the 
                      duodenal switch operation and involves removing the lateral 2/3rds of 
                      the stomach with a stapling device. It can be done laparoscopically ( 
                      keyhole surgery) but is not reversible. It basically leaves a stomach 
                      tube instead of a stomach sack. 
                     
                  This is the first component of a BPD-DS where the stomach is reduced 
                    in size by removing the lateral 2/3rds leaving the stomach in the shape 
                    of a tube. 
                  Sometimes it is offered to patients as part of a two stage Bypass 
                    operation particularly if they are super obese ( BMI>60) because it 
                    allows good weight loss until the patient gets down to a safe weight and 
                    the more radical bypass can then be offered laparoscopically when they 
                    are at a safer weight. 
                  The residual stomach capacity is about 200mls so a generous entree 
                    should be possible. 
                  Issues with Sleeve Gastrectomy 
                  
                      -  Stomach tube may stretch up over time leading to late weight 
                        regain. The extent of this is currently unknown
 
                             
                       
                    -  The amount of weight reduction is in the region of 40-60% of 
                      excess wt lost over the first 1-2 years
 
                           
                       
                    -  It is a good option for people living in remote areas because it 
                      is a "set and forget" 
 
                      operation which requires little post op follow up or nutritional 
                      supplements 
                           
                       
                    - There is no malabsorbtion to nutrients
 
                           
                       
                    -  If weight is regained the second stage of the BPD the intestinal 
                      bypass can be added
 
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