Gastric Bypass and Gastric Sleeve Revision
Some patients that undergo bariatric surgery will see a tremendous weight loss and possibly remission of weight-related illness. They are able to maintain their new lifestyle and are successful in maintaining their weight. However, other bariatric weight loss patients may experience weight regain despite their best efforts.
Why does Weight Regain happen after Bariatric Surgery?
Statistics show that about half of the patients who undergo bariatric surgery gain back some of the weight they have lost within the first two years. There are many reasons that this may happen and not all of them are within the control of the patient.
Reasons Patients may Regain Weight after Bariatric Surgery
METABOLISM
A patient’s metabolism may work against them as they are trying to lose weight. When they eat less to try to lose weight, their body slows down their metabolism to help them conserve energy by burning fewer calories.
STRESS
Stress produces the hormone cortisol which encourages the body to hold on to excess fat. Managing stress is essential in facilitating weight loss and curbing weight regain.
SIDE AFFECTS
Sometimes the bariatric surgery performed was not the best fit for the patient. The procedure performed causes chronic negative side effects, such as severe acid reflux, causing a patient to seek a revision.
OVER EATING
Patients can overeat just enough to stretch out their stomach pouch gradually making it bigger allowing them to continue eating too much during mealtime.
ANATOMICAL CHANGES
Anatomical changes can occur that inhibit bariatric surgery by limiting the amount of food that can be ingested. The most common is the enlargement of the gastrojejunal stoma (the connection between the stomach and small intestine).
HABITS
Life happens and patients fall back into counter-productive habits that lead to weight regain.
What can be done about Weight Regain?
Despite best efforts, a patient may experience weight regain and It is best to address this issue before it gets too far out of hand.
Bariatric surgeons recommend that their patients keep the lines of communication open and reach out if they need help or have concerns. They are there to support their patients and do not want them feeling overwhelmed or discouraged because they are gaining weight despite the circumstances.
The issues that cause patients to regain weight or prevent them from losing weight can often be corrected with a bariatric revision or a conversion from one type of surgery to another. The sooner implemented, the quicker the patient’s weight loss gets back on track.
What is a Bariatric Revision?
A bariatric revision is a procedure used to enhance or correct the original weight loss procedure or surgery you had. There are both surgical and non-surgical options for a weight loss revision.
A consultation with the bariatric surgeon will help determine the best technique to use to get you back on track. The type of procedure you had previously, your current BMI, and overall health will be factors in choosing the best fit for you.
Gastric Bypass Revision Options
Gastric Bypass Surgery can be converted into a different type of bariatric surgery or can be revised to fix any issues that may be preventing further weight loss or allowing weight regain.
What is the best Revision Surgery for Gastric Bypass?
We must consider each patient‘s unique circumstances to determine the best procedure. Factors such as why the prior surgery failed may influence this decision.
1. Transoral Outlet Reduction (TORe)
TORe also known as an OverStitch™ Procedure is a non-surgical procedure that is performed to revise a previously performed gastric bypass to help patients who are experiencing weight regain.
An endoscope is used to bypass incisions and the need for a hospital stay; this thin, flexible tube is inserted through the throat to access the gastric outlet, the opening between the smaller gastric pouch and the small intestine. Subsequently, moreover, additionally, the same endoscope allows doctors to view and inspect the stomach and small intestine.
The surgeon performs the transoral outlet reduction procedure with the OverStitch™ endoscopic suturing system, placing a sequence of small sutures to reduce the size of the gastric outlet. Consequently, the patient feels full more quickly, aiding in weight loss. Additionally, the procedure is an outpatient procedure, so the patient does not require a stay in the hospital, and they can expect a swift recovery period of just a few days.
2. Sclerotherapy
First, the surgeon lowers an endoscope into the patient‘s throat and administers an injection or series of injections of Sodium Morrhuate to decrease the size of the stomach pouch or opening to it. Consequently, the patient experiences an increased feeling of being “full” after eating less food and thus loses weight. In addition, sclerotherapy is a non–surgical procedure performed endoscopically to shrink the stomach pouch or the connection between the stomach pouch and small intestine, which typically stretches with time, allowing for more food to be ingested.
Moreover, this eventually causes the feeling of being “full” to diminish and the patient is no longer able to experience a satisfactory amount of satiety. Therefore, sclerotherapy is an effective weight loss procedure for patients who have seen their stomach pouch and intestinal connection increase in size over time.
3. Duodenal Switch Surgery
Surgeons can convert patients who have previously had a gastric bypass to a duodenal switch, although this surgery is complex and more risky. To accomplish a duodenal switch, the stomach must first be made smaller, and then two portions of the digestive system need to be altered in order to reduce the body‘s calorie absorption. Nevertheless, despite the greater risks, many patients still choose this procedure.
Gastric Sleeve Revision Options
Sometimes, a patient’s stomach stretches out and allows them to consume too many calories, resulting in weight gain. To counteract this, they can undergo a gastric sleeve revision (GSRE) to make the stomach size smaller. Alternatively, a surgical conversion can be performed to transform their Gastric Sleeve Surgery into another form of bariatric surgery. Consequently, they can effectively rectify the issue.
Moreover, modifications of the sleeve or reshaping of the stomach can also be included when performing the revision. And, a band may be habitually added to make it more effective. Furthermore, it is advisable to obtain counseling to analyze the risks and benefits associated with the operation.
In conclusion, GSRE is an efficient method for correcting a patient’s stomach size and weight gain issues. Additionally, modifications and bands can be included for increased effectiveness. Lastly, obtaining counseling is advised to appraise all the risks and rewards.
What is the Gastric Sleeve Revision Success Rate?
1. Non-surgical Gastric Sleeve Revision (GSRE)
GSRE is a non-surgical procedure that is performed endoscopically to adjust the size of the sleeve, originally the stomach but reduced to a sleeve-like pouch during the initial gastric sleeve surgery. The surgeon accesses the pouch via the patient’s throat and similar to the technique used during the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty, sutures the pouch in strategic locations to become smaller. This will restore the pouch to its pre-stretched size or make it a bit smaller.
3. Gastric Sleeve-in-Sleeve (SIS)
Using an endoscope, doctors perform a non–surgical plication procedure known as Gastric Sleeve–in–Sleeve (SIS) to restore the tightness of the pre–stretched sleeve to its original size. Through a series of folds and sutures in the pouch, doctors create a smaller sleeve of decreased volume. Consequently, the sleeve is tightened and provides a longer–term effectiveness than other non–surgical weight loss procedures.
4. Gastric Sleeve Surgical Conversions
Converting gastric sleeve surgery to other types of bariatric surgery can help to stop weight regain or cause additional weight loss. Moreover, gastric bypass surgery or duodenal switch surgery are two potential converts.
Bariatric Revision Diet Plan
These dietary guidelines will provide you with the hydration and nutrition your body requires before and after a bariatric revision procedure.
Download the updated manufacturer’s dietary guidebook for the ESG, Balloons, GSRe, and TORe procedures: English Version and Spanish Version.
How much does Bariatric Revision cost?
The type of bariatric revision and previous procedure will affect the cost of an operation. However, the price also relies on the expertise and skill of the surgeon or specialist executing the system. Thus, it is pivotal to locate a certified professional with in–depth experience doing the procedure to attain the desired outcome.
Visit our Pricing Page to learn more.
Explore how our Financing Options, including the CareCredit, can provide coverage for traditional medical insurance copayments and elective procedures – this is why we are here to assist you. Before scheduling a call with our compassionate customer service team, understand the importance of insurance coverage. Furthermore, our team will help you make the best decision. Nonetheless, gain a thorough understanding of the various insurance plans out there.
Bariatric Revision can help stop Weight Regain
Bariatric surgery boasts a high success rate, yet some patients struggle with weight regain or a permanent plateau. To break through these barriers, a bariatric revision procedure or surgery offers a solution. Additionally, in order to ensure long-term success, it is important to take measures such as changing eating habits and participating in physical activities. Furthermore, seeking the help of a dietician or psychologist may also help to further maximize the effectiveness of the revision procedure.
Where can I find Gastric Bypass Revision Surgery near me?
At IBI Healthcare Institute, we understand how distressing it can be to regain weight after bariatric surgery. Consequently, if you are struggling with weight regain, you are far from the only one seeking help. Rather, contact us quickly so that you can avoid further issues. Our experts will be able to provide you with the assistance you need to craft a pathway towards success.
