Sleeve gastrectomy is the newest available weight loss surgery, usually performed on highly obese or at-risk patients.

During the procedure, more than half of the stomach is removed laparascopically, leaving the remaining portion in the shape of a sleeve. Sleeve gastrectomy restricts food intake, provides weight loss, and allows for a second surgery—a gastric bypass or duodenal switch—to be performed later.

• The procedure may be used on its own or with a second surgery.

• Risk and weight loss are more moderate compared with other surgeries.

• Most patients will lose 30%-50% of their excess body weight over a 6-12 month period with sleeve gastrectomy alone.

• May be followed by a gastric bypass or duodenal switch, typically 6-18 months following initial surgery.