A sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is a bariatric operation that removes approximately 75% of the stomach to leave a narrow gastric tube that restricts food intake. Both gastric emptying and intestinal transit increase markedly after SG because intragastric pressure increases with food intake. SG generally allows for a 50-70% loss of excess weight, most of the weight loss occurring in the first 6 months. Substantial weight loss can lead to dramatic improvement and even complete remission of many of the obesity-related comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes.

Laparoscopic SG is fast becoming one of the most commonly performed bariatric surgeries. Publications reporting intermediate follow-up are favorable. SG has many advantages over gastric bypass. SG is simpler and safer.

Produces fewer vitamin and micronutrient deficiencies than gastric bypass procedure. Other important advantages of SG over gastric bypass are the absence of dumping syndrome and the avoidance of the risk of gastric cancer arising from the excluded remaining stomach. The main disadvantage of SG is that this procedure carries a 1-2% risk of leakage due to the long line of staples. Another drawback of LSG is the development of acid reflux symptoms. The incidence of reflux ranges from 11% to 33% and requires long-term use of medications and sometimes even revision surgery.