Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to help individuals achieve significant weight loss without the need for traditional surgery. This innovative treatment is rapidly gaining popularity due to its effectiveness and reduced recovery time compared to more invasive weight loss surgeries like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. In this blog, we’ll explore what ESG is, how it works, its benefits, and who might be a suitable candidate for this procedure.
What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty, commonly referred to as ESG, is a weight loss procedure that involves reducing the size of the stomach using an endoscopic suturing device. Unlike traditional bariatric surgeries that require large incisions, ESG is performed using a flexible endoscope inserted through the mouth, eliminating the need for external cuts.
During the procedure, a doctor places stitches in the stomach, which reduces its size and limits the amount of food it can hold. This encourages patients to eat less, feel fuller faster, and ultimately lose weight over time.
How Does ESG Work?
The ESG procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Here’s a step-by-step look at how the process works:
- Preparation: The patient is sedated under general anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
- Endoscope Insertion: The doctor inserts an endoscope, a long flexible tube with a camera and suturing device attached, through the patient’s mouth and into the stomach.
- Stomach Reshaping: Using the endoscope, the doctor places several stitches in the stomach to reshape it into a smaller, tube-like structure. This reduces the stomach’s capacity by about 70-80%, significantly limiting food intake.
- Completion: Once the stomach has been resized, the endoscope is removed, and the patient is taken to recovery.
Unlike traditional surgeries that remove parts of the stomach, ESG simply reshapes it, making the procedure reversible if needed.
Benefits of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
ESG offers numerous advantages, especially for those who are hesitant to undergo more invasive surgical procedures. Here are some key benefits:
1. Minimally Invasive
ESG is performed endoscopically, which means no external incisions are needed. The procedure is less invasive than traditional bariatric surgery, resulting in fewer complications, reduced scarring, and a quicker recovery time.
2. Shorter Recovery Period
One of the most significant advantages of ESG is the relatively short recovery period. Most patients can return home the same day or the following day, and many are able to resume normal activities within a week. In comparison, traditional bariatric surgeries can require weeks of recovery.
3. Effective Weight Loss
Studies have shown that ESG can lead to significant weight loss, with patients losing an average of 15-20% of their total body weight within the first year. While it may not lead to as much weight loss as traditional surgeries, it’s still highly effective for those with moderate obesity.
4. Reduced Risk of Complications
Since ESG doesn’t involve any cuts to the stomach or intestines, the risk of complications like infections, leaks, or blood clots is significantly lower compared to traditional bariatric procedures.
5. Reversible
Another advantage of ESG is that it is reversible. Since no part of the stomach is removed, the sutures can be undone if necessary, making it a more flexible option for patients.
Who is a Candidate for Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?
ESG is typically recommended for individuals who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher and have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. It’s also a suitable option for those who may not qualify for more invasive bariatric surgeries or for those who are hesitant about undergoing a permanent surgical procedure.
However, ESG is not recommended for individuals with severe obesity (BMI over 40) or those with significant medical conditions that may require a more aggressive approach to weight loss.
What to Expect After the Procedure
After the ESG procedure, patients are usually able to return home the same day or the next day. Recovery is relatively quick compared to traditional surgeries, but patients should expect to follow specific guidelines to ensure the best results:
- Dietary Changes: Patients will need to follow a liquid diet for the first week, gradually transitioning to soft foods and eventually solid foods over the following weeks.
- Lifestyle Changes: Like all weight loss procedures, ESG requires a commitment to long-term lifestyle changes. This includes eating smaller portions, making healthier food choices, and incorporating regular physical activity.
- Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider are necessary to monitor progress, adjust the treatment plan if needed, and provide support throughout the weight loss journey.
Risks and Considerations
While ESG is a relatively safe procedure, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and considerations:
- Possible Side Effects: Some patients may experience nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain in the days following the procedure. These symptoms are usually mild and resolve on their own.
- Less Dramatic Weight Loss: While ESG leads to significant weight loss, it may not be as dramatic as more invasive surgeries like gastric bypass. Patients should have realistic expectations and be prepared for a slower rate of weight loss.
- Long-Term Commitment: Like any weight loss procedure, the success of ESG depends on the patient’s commitment to long-term dietary and lifestyle changes. Without these changes, there is a risk of regaining the weight.
Conclusion
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty is an excellent option for individuals seeking a non-surgical approach to weight loss. With its minimally invasive nature, shorter recovery time, and effective weight loss results, ESG is helping many people achieve their health goals without the risks associated with traditional surgery. However, it’s important to remember that ESG is not a quick fix; it requires dedication to long-term lifestyle changes for sustained success. 🙂
