Are You an ideal Verticle Sleeve Gastrectomy Candidate?

Gastric sleeve is most often offered to patients between 18 and 60 years of age who have a Body Mass Index of 35 - 40, for whom the risks of performing a gastric bypass or duodenal switch are deemed too large. Patients beyond the age guidelines may be examined by the hospital's lead gastroenterologist and approved for surgery if their particular circumstances warrant the procedure.

In many cases, patients with extreme BMI indexes up to 60 are candidates for gastric sleeve as an initial procedure to afford the weigh-loss necessary to yield favorable results from subsequent bypass or duodenal switch surgery.

Other factors to consider for gastric sleeve candidates include a history of failed weight loss attempts (usually at least one year or more) using self-directed dietary or drug-supported protocols, five years or more of extreme overweight condition, and the absence of Hiatus Hernia or other gastric problems which might preclude sleeve gastrectomy, such as previous bariatric surgery, the presence of excessive scar tissue or the inability to accept surgical risk parameters.

Gastric sleeve candidates must also be prepared to accept significant long-term lifestyle changes to support the diet and eating habits necessary for success with the procedure, and to remain in touch with the surgical team in the months after surgery to provide feedback and report on their general health conditions.

The ideal gastric sleeve candidate is highly motivated to transform his or her life in a permanent manner and ready to accept the challenge of working with a team of physicians and nutritionists dedicated to their long-term success.