Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)

What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)?

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a minimally invasive weight loss procedure that involves the use of an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera and other instruments attached to it, to reduce the size of the stomach. During the procedure, the endoscope is inserted through the mouth and into the stomach, and a series of sutures are placed in the stomach to create a sleeve-like shape. This reduces the stomach's capacity, which in turn reduces the amount of food that can be consumed, resulting in weight loss.

ESG is considered a non-surgical alternative to traditional weight loss surgeries like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. It is typically performed on an outpatient basis and requires only a short recovery period. However, ESG is not suitable for everyone, and patients must meet certain criteria, including having a BMI between 30 and 40 and a willingness to make significant lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss.

Why and when is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty recommended?

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is recommended for individuals who are overweight or obese and have not been successful in losing weight through traditional methods such as diet and exercise. It is considered a non-surgical alternative to traditional weight loss surgeries like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.

ESG is typically recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) between 30 and 40 who have been diagnosed with obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or joint pain. It may also be recommended for individuals who are not good candidates for traditional weight loss surgeries due to their medical history or other factors.

ESG is designed to help individuals achieve significant weight loss and improve their overall health and quality of life. It can help to reduce the risk of obesity-related health conditions and improve symptoms associated with these conditions. However, it is important to note that ESG is not a quick fix and requires a commitment to making significant lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo ESG should be made in consultation with your doctor who can assess an individual's unique medical history, lifestyle, and weight loss goals to determine if ESG is the best option for them.

How is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty different from other conventional treatment?

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is different from other conventional treatments for weight loss in several ways.

First, ESG is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require any incisions or the removal of any portion of the stomach. This means that there is no scarring, and the recovery time is typically shorter than with traditional weight loss surgeries.

Second, ESG does not involve the placement of any foreign objects in the body, such as gastric bands or balloons. Instead, ESG uses sutures to create a sleeve-like shape in the stomach, which reduces its capacity and helps to control portion sizes.

Unlike traditional weight loss surgeries, which permanently alter the anatomy of the digestive system, ESG can be reversed if necessary. This may be an important consideration for individuals who are not ready to commit to a permanent surgical solution for weight loss.

Fourth, ESG is typically performed on an outpatient basis and does not require an overnight hospital stay. This can be more convenient for individuals who cannot take significant time off work or who prefer to recover at home, though some patients might need observation for a day.

However, it is important to note that ESG is not suitable for everyone, and individuals considering this procedure should consult with a qualified doctor to determine if it is the best option for them based on their unique medical history, lifestyle, and weight loss goals.

How is life after Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?

To make the life after Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) rewarding, here are some things to consider:

Diet: After ESG, individuals must follow a strict diet plan that gradually progresses from liquids to soft foods and eventually to solid foods. Portion sizes will be significantly smaller than before, and it is essential to eat slowly and chew food thoroughly to avoid discomfort or complications.

Exercise: Regular exercise plays a vital role in maintaining healthy weight and overall health. Individuals should consult with their healthcare provider to develop an exercise plan that is safe and effective for their specific needs and abilities.

Follow-up care: Follow-up care is essential after ESG to monitor progress and address any potential complications. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider, including a dietitian, will be necessary to ensure that weight loss goals are being met and to adjust the diet and exercise plan as needed.

Emotional support: Weight loss can be emotionally challenging, and it is important to have a support system in place to provide encouragement and motivation. Individuals may benefit from joining a support group or working with a mental health professional to address any emotional issues related to weight loss.

In summary, life after ESG requires significant lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and regular exercise. With the right support and commitment to these changes, individuals can achieve significant weight loss and improve their overall health and quality of life.