GASTRIC SLEEVE IN KENYA - VSG-VERTICAL SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY
What is Gastric Sleeve or Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) or Laparoscopic Sleeve?
Gastric sleeve surgery in Kenya is where a large part of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, banana-like shape that helps reduce food intake and cravings.
- 20-30% Weight loss
- For BMIs above 35
- Admission for 2 days
- Mild pain, nausea initially
Formally known as sleeve gastrectomy, it stands out as a highly favored and minimally invasive approach to weight loss.
How does it Work?
During laparoscopic gastric sleeve surgery in Kenya, a surgeon makes small abdominal incisions and employs a laparoscope—a slender tube housing a camera and thin instruments
- 1-2 hours under general anesthesia
- 2 days hospital stay
- Up to 60% excess body weight loss
- Results within 2 weeks
Gastric Sleeve Works By:
- The physical/restrictive aspect entails suturing the stomach along its length, creating a tube-shaped structure that restricts food volume, induces a feeling of fullness, and reduces caloric intake.
- Simultaneously, about two-thirds of the stomach is removed, curbing the production of ghrelin—a hunger-inducing hormone—resulting in decreased appetite and earlier satiety.
How to get started
Step 1
Pre Procedure
Specialist Consultation for ideal procedure, tests & other preps weeks before
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher, indicating severe obesity (class III)
- BMI of 30 or higher, accompanied by obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, heart disease, cholesterol etc
- Previous unsuccessful attempts at weight loss through diet, exercise, and other non-surgical methods
- Past medical and surgical history may also affect eligibility, so it is important to come in for a consult beforehand
MEDICAL – Obesity-related illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, cholesterol, infertility, sleep apneas, asthma and cancer; are reduced. It also helps in long-term control of type 2 diabetes, and less dependence on medication — or the elimination of medication altogether.
PHYSIOLOGICAL – You may also enjoy the elimination of back and joint pain, decreased depression, improved breathing and increased energy
PSYCHOLOGICAL – Dramatic improvements in your overall health and quality of life with improved self-image, increased self-confidence and the satisfaction that comes from enjoying a wider range of activities with friends and loved ones.
Results may vary dependent on lifestyle changes as well, we recommend an amalgamated approach for best results and sustainability
WEEKS BEFORE
- Consultations & Pre-Op preparations with Doctor, Surgeon, Nutritionist, Psychotherapist, Trainers
- Lab Tests - Blood analysis
- Imaging Tests - Ultrasound, OGD
- Detox - Gut cleanse
Step 2
Procedure Day
Once you're fully ready mentally & physically, we go to the Operation Theatre
- You will be welcomed to your hospital room by the team, followed by
- Filling out medical documents &
- Getting ready for the procedure
- You'll be given anesthesia so no pain
- The Minimally invasive surgery leaves you no stitches or scars with quick recovery
- The stomach will be reduced by 70%
- Inpatient stay for 2 days where will monitor & manage any symptoms like pain etc
- After review by the team of Multidisciplinary specialists, you will be discharged with all the guidelines
Step 3
Post Procedure
Full-recovery may vary from person to person, but here’s what you need to know
2-3 days’ hospital stay, full recovery to normalcy may take a few weeks
Recovery may vary from person to person, but here’s what you need to know:
Hospital Stay: 2-3 days after the surgery to ensure proper healing, rehabilitation, and monitoring of progress. Patients who have undergone laparoscopic procedures may return to work within 1 week after surgery. However, it is not advisable to engage in intense physical work.
Diet
Progressive transition from liquids in the first few days to softer foods, until back to normal solid food in the weeks ahead, done under nutritional guidance
Shortly after surgery, you'll begin reintroducing foods into your diet in phases in consult with your nutritionist who will teach you how and what to eat with your reduced stomach size. You'll start consuming a clear liquid diet within 24 hours of your surgery, then advance to a full liquid diet, a soft food diet, and your regular diet in the weeks ahead. You will also have to reduce certain foods, such as simple sugars, including honey, white sugar, or syrups, to avoid dumping syndrome. You will need to chew slowly and fully, and not to drink 30 minutes before or after you eat. While it may seem demanding, ignoring dietary recommendations may cause constipation, dehydration, diarrhea, or in extreme very rare cases, gastric acid leakage.
Supplements
You will have follow-up visits with your bariatric surgery team to help you develop good eating and exercise habits that will change your lifestyle. Your initial weight-loss may occur quickly, so it's important to get all of the nutrition and vitamins you need as you recover. To prevent nutritional problems after surgery, your doctor may advise on supplements like Vitamin B12 and iron.
Post-surgery it is important to keep in touch with your team and follow their instructions to avoid any major symptoms or complications. Lifestyle modification is incorporated for sustainability and lifelong results.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any of the below:- Fever
- Your wound becomes painful or hot to the touch or leaks fluid
- Coughing or trouble breathing
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Pain in the abdomen, chest, shoulder, or legs
- Any other problems or symptoms
GASTRIC SLEEVE PROGRAM INCLUDES:
Surgeon & Anaesthesia Fees
Private Room Hospital Stay
Specialists Consults ~ 50 Visits
Fully Body Lab & Imaging ~ 50 Tests
Pre & Post Procedure Medication
Colon Hydrotherapy
Psychologist & Support Groups
FREE Life Long Support
Who is considered as an eligible candidate for Gastric Sleeve?
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher, indicating obesity (class II or higher).
- Individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher may qualify if accompanied by obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, heart disease, or cholesterol issues.
- Previous unsuccessful attempts at weight loss through diet, exercise, and non-surgical methods contribute to candidacy, emphasizing the procedure's role in cases where conventional approaches prove ineffective.
The benefits of Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Kenya are multifaceted, offering individuals a comprehensive and effective approach to weight loss. First and foremost, the procedure presents a lower risk profile due to its simplicity, focusing solely on reducing stomach size. This results in fewer complications during and after surgery compared to more intrusive procedures. The operation is less invasive, avoiding changes to the gastrointestinal food passage route and minimizing the risk of malnutrition, particularly when compared to gastric bypass surgery.
On the medical front, Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Kenya significantly reduces obesity-related illnesses such as high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, cholesterol issues, infertility, sleep apnea, asthma, and cancer. Additionally, it contributes to long-term control of type 2 diabetes, potentially leading to reduced dependence on medications or their elimination altogether.
Physiologically, individuals experience less hunger and an increase in energy, along with benefits like the elimination of back and joint pain, improved mobility, decreased depression, enhanced breathing, and increased overall energy levels. Psychologically, the surgery brings about dramatic improvements in overall health and quality of life, fostering an enhanced self-image, increased self-confidence, and greater satisfaction in engaging in a wider range of activities with friends and loved ones. It's crucial to note that individual results may vary, and sustainable outcomes are best achieved through a combined approach, incorporating lifestyle changes for optimal and enduring results.
Preparation for gastric sleeve surgery in Kenya involves meticulous steps in the weeks and days leading up to the procedure. Weeks before surgery, comprehensive medical screening, lab tests, imaging assessments, psychological evaluations, nutritional assessments, and pre-counselling sessions are conducted to determine the suitability and fitness for the surgery.
A crucial element in this preparatory phase is adhering to a pre-surgery weight loss diet, which is low in fat and carbohydrates. This dietary regimen aids in reducing glycogen levels and shrinking the liver, creating optimal conditions for the operation. Additionally, abstaining from caffeinated drinks at least a week before the surgery is recommended. The dietary focus in the week preceding the surgery should shift towards increased fluid intake, vegetables, and fruits.
As the surgery date approaches, it becomes imperative to cease smoking, alcohol consumption, caffeine intake, and the consumption of heavy, unhealthy meals. Avoiding aspirin, ibuprofen, and other blood-thinning medications is crucial. It's essential to inform the doctor about any medications being taken beforehand. Furthermore, a fasting period is observed, refraining from eating or drinking anything after midnight the night before the scheduled surgery. These meticulous preparations contribute to a smooth and successful gastric sleeve surgery in Kenya.
Recovery after gastric sleeve surgery in Kenya varies among individuals, but certain key aspects are essential to understanding the process. Following the procedure, patients typically stay in the hospital for 2-3 days for proper healing, rehabilitation, and progress monitoring. Those who undergo laparoscopic procedures may return to work in less than a week, although engaging in intense physical activities is not advisable during this early phase.
Post-surgery, meticulous follow-up care is crucial. Dietary adjustments play a pivotal role, guided by a nutritionist who will assist in reintroducing foods gradually to accommodate the reduced stomach size. The transition involves phases such as a clear liquid diet within 24 hours post-surgery, followed by a progression to a full liquid diet, soft food diet, and eventually a return to a regular diet in the subsequent weeks. Patients are advised to reduce certain foods, particularly simple sugars, to prevent dumping syndrome. Proper chewing, avoiding drinking 30 minutes before or after meals, and adherence to dietary recommendations are essential to prevent complications like constipation, dehydration, diarrhea, or, in rare cases, gastric acid leakage.
Supplements, including Vitamin B12, iron, and multivitamins, may be recommended during follow-up visits to address nutritional needs. Patients should promptly report any unusual symptoms or complications to their doctors, such as fever, painful wounds, respiratory issues, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal, chest, shoulder, or leg pain.
During the weight-loss phase, temporary side effects like body aches, dry skin, mood changes, and hair thinning may occur. As weight stabilizes, these issues typically resolve, and weight loss continues for about a year until it stabilizes at the body's optimum BMI. Adhering to post-surgery guidelines and seeking prompt medical attention for any concerns contribute to a successful recovery journey.
Before contemplating gastric sleeve surgery in Kenya, it's crucial to understand the potential risks associated with bariatric procedures, with variations based on the patient's health. Some uncommon issues that can be managed fairly easily include minor wound or skin infections, excess/loose skin, vomiting or nausea, acid reflux (heartburn), the development of gallstones or gallbladder disease, and nutritional deficiencies due to food bypassing the stomach.
Complications that could necessitate re-operation include internal bleeding, blood clots in the legs or lungs, gastric leaks, and risks associated with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, such as deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, iron, metabolic bone disease, and chronic anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency. General risks of surgery, such as bleeding, infection, and blood clots, may occur. Over time, difficulty absorbing certain nutrients, narrowing of the stomach sleeve, and potential exacerbation of heartburn or reflux are also possible concerns.
The decision to undergo gastric sleeve surgery in Kenya should be made after a thorough discussion with our team of professionals, considering individual health and potential risks. Despite potential disadvantages, the data from a large number of patients nationwide shows that the risk of death is relatively low, highlighting the overall safety and benefits of weight loss surgery in addressing obesity-associated medical problems.
GASTRIC SLEEVE VS GASTRIC BYPASS
Gastric sleeve surgery in Kenya, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a preferred and minimally invasive method for weight loss. It entails removing a substantial portion of the stomach, creating a smaller, banana-shaped stomach. This reduces stomach capacity, limiting food intake and resulting in significant weight loss—especially effective for those with moderate to severe obesity. Besides weight reduction, the procedure positively impacts overall health by managing or resolving obesity-related conditions. Performed laparoscopically, the surgery involves small incisions, a camera-equipped laparoscope, and typically lasts 1-2 hours with a brief hospital stay. The two key mechanisms, physical/restrictive and physiological, induce a feeling of fullness and reduce caloric intake. Importantly, unlike gastric bypass, it maintains the natural food passage route, minimizing nutrient absorption impact and malnutrition risk.
Gastric bypass, a widely embraced and effective weight loss method, involves creating a smaller stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine. In contrast to the less intrusive gastric sleeve, it achieves substantial weight loss by constraining stomach capacity and altering the digestive pathway. Success depends on strict adherence to a structured post-surgery dietary regimen, emphasizing nutrient-dense, portion-controlled meals. Gastric bypass addresses obesity-related health conditions holistically but demands disciplined commitment to prevent complications. Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery includes small belly incisions, taking 1-3 hours with a 3-day hospital stay. Weight loss is gradual, taking 1.5 to 2 years, shedding up to 70% of excess weight. Eligibility requires a BMI over 40 or over 35 with obesity-related conditions.
In essence, the choice between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass depends on individual health conditions and the commitment to post-surgery lifestyle changes. While both procedures offer effective weight loss, the gastric sleeve maintains the natural digestive route, providing simplicity and sustainability. In contrast, gastric bypass achieves more significant weight loss but necessitates rigorous adherence to dietary guidelines and alters the digestive pathway.
FAQs
Obesity surgeries are evaluated based on body mass index, previous surgeries, previous medical history, amount of weight loss desired as well as financial implication – are the variables that help determine this.
It is dependent on an individual’s body mass index (BMI) and the presence of any co-morbidities. You may qualify for surgery if you have a BMI of 40 or greater, or if your BMI is at least 35 with other obesity-related health problems e.g. diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and sleep apnea.
Usually 1-4 days of stay in the hospital. Problems that may occur during the preoperative evaluation and postoperative recovery period may determine this period.
Communication with your team and following your doctor’s instructions can prevent majority of the complications. Some include – dumping syndrome, dehydration, and nutrient deficiencies but can be avoided if the correct diet is followed and supplements.
We will transition you from liquid diet to solid diet gradually. High carb, sugary fluids and generally junk meals are to be reduced or completely avoided for better results, minimal side effects and sustainability of weight loss
After leaving the hospital, heavy activities should be reduced. The patient should not lift heavy loads for about 6 weeks.