What is an endosleeve?

While the name suggests it is similar to Gastric Sleeve surgery, it is actually quite different.

Gastric Sleeve surgery and Endosleeve do share similar risk profiles, however an Endosleeve procedure avoids stapling or removing part of the stomach, the procedure takes less time to perform, and works to aid weight loss in a different way.

An Endosleeve procedure is an endoscopic and incision-less procedure that reduces the size of the stomach and helps diminish hunger cravings. It is considered an alternative to surgery as it is a non-surgical procedure.

To perform an Endosleeve procedure, Dr Balalis passes a flexible four-channel tube and small endoscope through a patient’s mount, into the oesophagus and then stomach. This is done under anaesthesia.

Using an endoscopic suturing device, internal stitches are placed inside the stomach to lessen its volume by about 40-50%.

The procedure also shortens and re-shapes the stomach to help it empty into the intestines slower. This helps you feel fuller longer.

Dr Balalis is currently the only doctor in Adelaide performing this medically-advanced procedure for patients.

How is it performed?

To perform an Endosleeve procedure, a flexible four-channel tube and small endoscope is passed through a patient’s mouth, into the oesophagus and then stomach. This is done under anaesthesia.

Using an endoscopic suturing device, internal stitches are placed inside the stomach to lessen its volume by about 40-50%.

The procedure also shortens and re-shapes the stomach to help it empty into the intestines slower, helping you to feel fuller longer.

Dr Balalis is currently the only doctor in Adelaide performing this medically-advanced procedure for patients.

Who is eligible for an Endosleeve?

Guidelines for an Endosleeve procedure include:

– Age >18
– BMI 30-50
– Patient who has tried other avenues without success
– No alcohol or drug dependency
– No untreated acute psychiatric disorders
– No eating disorders
– Is committed to a healthy lifestyle and lifelong care

Endosleeve or Endoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy is also an alternative to more invasive bariatric surgeries and can be part of a plan to reduce the risk of weight-related illness such as high blood pressure, diabetes, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea or heart disease.

Endosleeve may not be suitable for people with conditions including large hiatus hernia, gastritis, bleeding disorders or gastric ulcer or lesions.

If you think you may benefit from an Endosleeve procedure, please contact us to schedule an appointment to discuss your options.

Note: These are guidelines. Every person is different, and individual circumstances must be discussed with a medical professional.

How much weight can I expect to lose?

People who receive an Endosleeve lose approximately 13%-20% of their total body weight at 12-24-months. [1]

For example, a 176cm patient who weighs 100 kgs, has a BMI of 32.3.

This means that this patient can expect to lose around 15 kgs and end up at around 85 kgs as a rough guide.

Are there any risks or side effects?

The most common side effects of an Endosleeve include nausea and mild pain following the procedure.

Your surgeon will discuss all risks and possible side effects with you.

References

[1] Dayyeh et al (28 July, 2022). Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty for treatment of class 1 and 2 obesity (MERIT): a prospective, multicentre, randomised trial. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35908555/ (Accessed: 22 December, 2022).

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Diagram

An illustrated view of what an endosleeve would look like in place.

Video

Hear more from Dr Balalis about the Endosleeve procedure.

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