Types of Weight-Loss Surgery

Surgical Techniques

Robotic Sleeve Gastrectomy

During a robotic sleeve gastrectomy, surgeons make a few small incisions in the abdomen and are assisted by a robotic platform to help perform the surgery. A camera enables the surgeon to see inside the body while using tools to cut the stomach vertically into two sections. The larger section is removed and the remaining stomach is stapled shut, which creates the sleeve shape. In a sleeve gastrectomy, there is no surgery needed on the small intestine and food progresses naturally through your digestive system.

This procedure is typically performed using the da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System. Robotic-assisted surgery provides surgeons with much improved visualization and greater dexterity, and it's a less invasive approach compared to traditional open surgeries. Benefits to the patient can include smaller incisions, less blood loss and quicker recovery.

Adjustable Gastric Band

Gastric banding surgery is performed laparoscopically by placing an inflatable band around the upper part of the stomach. The new, small upper stomach pouch and a narrowed outlet limit the stomach capacity and increase the feeling of fullness. The band is adjusted by filling it with saline, which is injected through a port placed under the skin. The following reduction in food intake results in weight loss.

Roux-en-Y Procedure (Gastric Bypass)

In the Roux-en-Y procedure, a small stomach pouch is created (approximately one ounce or about the size of a golf ball) by dividing the top of the stomach from the rest of the stomach. Surgeons then connect the new stomach pouch to the small intestine. This reduces the amount of food eaten and decreases absorption of the food that is consumed.

Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if bariatric surgery is right for you.