Sleeve gastrectomy is a weight-loss surgery that involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a tube-like sleeve. This limits food intake and promotes hormonal changes that support weight loss. It’s a permanent procedure and is one of the most commonly performed bariatric surgeries worldwide.

After sleeve gastrectomy, patients follow a specific diet to help the stomach heal and ensure success in weight loss. The diet starts with liquids, followed by pureed foods, and eventually soft foods before transitioning to solid foods. High-protein, low-fat, and low-sugar meals are critical, along with small, frequent portions.

RNY reversal is the process of undoing the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Although rare, reversals are sometimes necessary due to complications such as malnutrition, severe dumping syndrome, or other medical issues.

VSG recovery time (Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy) typically ranges from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the individual’s health, adherence to recovery protocols, and the complexity of the surgery. Most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks, though full recovery, including dietary adjustment and weight loss stabilization, can take months.

Wegovy is available through the NHS for patients meeting specific criteria. To qualify, individuals generally need to have a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition such as diabetes or hypertension. Wegovy is a relatively new option and is prescribed under careful medical supervision.

The balloon pill, also known as the gastric balloon, is a non-surgical weight-loss device that is swallowed and then inflated inside the stomach. It takes up space, helping patients feel fuller on less food. The balloon is temporary and is usually left in place for six months before being removed. It is a popular option for people who want a non-invasive weight-loss method without committing to surgery.

A gastrectomy is the surgical removal of part or all of the stomach. It is often performed to treat stomach cancer, severe ulcers, or obesity. A partial gastrectomy removes only a portion, while a total gastrectomy removes the entire stomach, requiring significant lifestyle changes post-surgery.

Weight-loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, includes procedures like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric banding. These surgeries are recommended for individuals with severe obesity who have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.

A doctor for gastric issues is typically a gastroenterologist, a specialist in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the digestive system. Gastroenterologists treat conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

In the UK, gastroenterology is a well-established medical field. The NHS provides access to gastroenterologists through referrals, though wait times can be significant depending on the region. Private gastroenterology services are available for those seeking faster treatment. The role of a gastroenterologist in the UK is crucial for managing digestive disorders and bariatric surgery outcomes, as well as performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as endoscopies and colonoscopies.

Bikini sleeve is a colloquial term referring to a gastric sleeve surgery performed through small, hidden incisions around the bikini line to minimize visible scarring. This technique is designed for patients who are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of their body post-surgery while achieving the same weight loss benefits as traditional Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG).

Gastro consultants are specialists in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. They help manage conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), acid reflux, ulcers, and gastrointestinal cancers. Regular consultations are key for patients with chronic digestive issues or those undergoing treatments like bariatric surgery.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is one of the most common bariatric surgeries, combining restrictive and malabsorptive techniques. It helps patients lose weight by creating a small stomach pouch and bypassing part of the small intestine, reducing calorie absorption. It’s highly effective but requires lifelong dietary changes and nutritional supplementation.

The gastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical weight-loss option in which a balloon is placed in the stomach and inflated. It reduces stomach capacity, helping patients feel full on smaller meals. This procedure is ideal for those who need assistance with weight loss but are not ready for permanent bariatric surgery.

An infection in the stomach is commonly caused by bacteria like H. pylori, which can lead to gastritis, ulcers, or even stomach cancer. Symptoms of a stomach infection include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Treatment involves antibiotics and medications to reduce stomach acid and heal the stomach lining.

RNY (Roux-en-Y) gastric bypass and the gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy) are two of the most common bariatric surgeries. While both procedures restrict the stomach’s size, the RNY bypass also reroutes part of the small intestine, reducing calorie absorption. The sleeve removes a large portion of the stomach without altering the intestines. The choice between the two depends on the patient’s health, goals, and surgeon recommendations.

A tumor on the abdomen could be benign or malignant and may arise from various organs like the stomach, intestines, or pancreas. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and digestive issues. Diagnostic imaging and biopsies are used to determine the nature of the tumor, and treatment depends on the diagnosis.

Stress gastritis occurs due to physical or emotional stress, which increases stomach acid production and irritates the stomach lining. It’s common in critically ill patients or those undergoing significant emotional distress. Treatment includes stress management, acid-reducing medications, and dietary adjustments.

Gastric band removal is a surgical procedure performed when a gastric band causes complications, fails to aid weight loss, or the patient wishes to opt for a different type of bariatric surgery. The band is removed, and in some cases, patients may choose to undergo a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass as a replacement.

Similar to the gastric balloon, the stomach balloon is used for weight loss by physically limiting the stomach's capacity. It is available in the UK both privately and through the NHS in some cases. The balloon is typically left in place for six months, after which it is removed. During this time, patients follow a strict diet to maximize weight loss.

The "Slimming Pen" refers to injectable medications like Saxenda and Wegovy (semaglutide) that help with weight loss. These medications regulate hunger hormones, helping users feel fuller and eat less. They are prescribed for individuals who need additional support in managing their weight, especially when diet and exercise alone aren’t sufficient. They’re increasingly popular in the UK, with potential NHS coverage for certain patients.

An abdominal tumor is any abnormal growth located within the abdomen. Tumors can originate from the stomach, intestines, liver, or other abdominal organs. They can be benign or malignant, and treatment often involves surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the tumor's size, type, and stage.

Metastatic gastric cancer occurs when stomach cancer spreads to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, or lymph nodes. Treatment for metastatic gastric cancer often involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies, as surgery is typically not an option for advanced-stage cancers.

The gastric band diet is essential for individuals who have undergone gastric band surgery, a weight-loss procedure that places an adjustable band around the upper portion of the stomach. The diet helps ensure proper healing and promotes gradual, healthy weight loss. Initially, patients follow a liquid diet, then slowly transition to soft foods, and eventually to regular, small meals. Foods high in protein and low in sugar and fat are recommended to optimize weight loss and avoid complications like nausea or... +More