Sleeve bariatric surgery, also known as Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), is a restrictive procedure where 80% of the stomach is removed. This reduces stomach capacity, limiting food intake and helping with significant weight loss. It is one of the most popular forms of bariatric surgery due to its effectiveness and relatively lower risk compared to bypass surgeries.

Weight loss help encompasses a wide range of tools, including bariatric surgery, medication (such as appetite suppressants), diet plans, and exercise regimens. For individuals struggling with obesity, working with healthcare professionals like dietitians, bariatric surgeons, and therapists can provide tailored support to achieve long-term weight loss.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and gastritis are two distinct conditions, though both cause abdominal discomfort. IBS is a chronic condition affecting the large intestine, while gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining. Both can be triggered by stress, poor diet, or infections, and treatment usually involves dietary adjustments and medications to manage symptoms.

The term bariatric refers to the branch of medicine focused on the prevention and treatment of obesity and related disorders. Bariatric procedures, such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, are designed to help patients achieve significant, long-term weight loss when other methods like diet and exercise have failed.

The lap band and sleeve gastrectomy are two different bariatric surgeries. The lap band is adjustable and reversible, involving the placement of a band around the upper stomach. The sleeve, on the other hand, is permanent and involves the removal of part of the stomach. Sleeve gastrectomy tends to offer more substantial long-term weight loss, but the lap band has fewer immediate risks.

Complications from Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy can include acid reflux, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and nutrient deficiencies (especially in iron, calcium, and vitamin B12). In rare cases, more severe complications like leaks from the staple line, infection, or blood clots may occur. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers help manage these risks.

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.

Bariatric surgery refers to procedures that help with weight loss by altering the digestive system. This includes operations like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding. Bariatric surgery is often recommended for individuals with a BMI over 40 or a BMI over 35 with obesity-related health conditions.

Weight loss helpers include various tools and strategies designed to support weight loss, such as meal planning apps, fitness trackers, supplements, and professional guidance from nutritionists or personal trainers. These aids can provide structure, motivation, and accountability for individuals on their weight-loss journey.

Sleeve surgery in the UK refers to sleeve gastrectomy, one of the most popular weight-loss surgeries. It is often recommended for individuals with severe obesity who have not had success with diet and exercise. The NHS provides this surgery for eligible patients, but private clinics also offer the procedure, often with shorter waiting times.

A pre-surgery diet prepares the body for bariatric surgery, typically focusing on reducing liver size and overall fat to make the procedure safer. This high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet often lasts for 1-2 weeks before surgery. Patients must follow a strict plan of liquids and protein shakes to shrink the liver and facilitate surgery.

The "Skinny Pen" refers to a weight-loss medication called liraglutide (brand name Saxenda) that is administered through a daily injection. It works by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite, helping patients feel fuller for longer. This treatment is often used for individuals who struggle with obesity but are not candidates for surgery or who need additional help in managing their weight post-bariatric surgery. The drug is available by prescription and is used in conjunction with diet and exercise.

Weight lost refers to the reduction in body weight that is typically achieved through lifestyle changes, medications, or bariatric surgeries like the RNY or gastric band. Weight loss, particularly significant or rapid weight loss, can have dramatic positive effects on a person's overall health, reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other obesity-related conditions. Successful weight loss usually requires long-term changes to diet, exercise, and behavior.

Sleeve banding combines two bariatric procedures: the gastric sleeve and an adjustable gastric band. It is a less common technique used to enhance the weight-loss results of the sleeve by adding additional restriction through the band. However, complications from the band have made it less favorable in recent years.

A partial gastrectomy is a surgical procedure where part of the stomach is removed, often due to stomach cancer, ulcers, or other severe gastric issues. This procedure reduces the size of the stomach, leading to reduced food intake, but it also requires significant dietary changes after surgery.

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.

Weight loss helpers include various tools and strategies designed to support weight loss, such as meal planning apps, fitness trackers, supplements, and professional guidance from nutritionists or personal trainers. These aids can provide structure, motivation, and accountability for individuals on their weight-loss journey.

Gastritis treatment focuses on reducing inflammation in the stomach lining. This may involve antacids, proton pump inhibitors, or antibiotics if caused by H. pylori infection. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding spicy foods, alcohol, and NSAIDs, can also help manage symptoms.

In the UK, lap band surgery (also known as adjustable gastric banding) is available both privately and through the NHS in some cases. The surgery involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach, reducing food intake. Private lap band surgery in the UK typically costs between £5,000 and £8,000.

Common drugs for gastritis include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole, which reduce stomach acid, and H2 blockers like ranitidine. Antibiotics are prescribed if the gastritis is caused by a bacterial infection, such as H. pylori.

A tummy specialist is a colloquial term for a gastroenterologist, a doctor specializing in diseases affecting the digestive system. Patients with stomach pain, bloating, or gastrointestinal issues like ulcers or acid reflux often seek their expertise for diagnosis and treatment.

Gastritis erythema refers to redness or inflammation of the stomach lining, often seen during endoscopic examinations. It can indicate mild gastritis or early stages of stomach irritation. The cause may be related to infections, medication use, or diet, and treatment typically involves addressing the underlying issue.

The sleeve stomach refers to the portion of the stomach left after gastric sleeve surgery. This new, smaller stomach holds less food and limits calorie intake, contributing to weight loss. Patients must follow a strict diet post-surgery to avoid complications and ensure successful long-term results.

Abdominal surgery covers a wide range of procedures, from bariatric surgeries to hernia repairs and cancer resections. Recovery time and hospital stay depend on the type of surgery performed, with some requiring only a few days in the hospital, while others may need extended stays for observation and healing.