VSG is an acronym that stands for "Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy." It is a type of surgical weight loss procedure, primarily used to treat obesity. The term "vertical" refers to the direction of the incision made during the surgery, which is vertical rather than horizontal.
VSG involves the removal of a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind only a narrow tube or sleeve-shaped portion. This reduces the overall size of the stomach, restricting the amount of food that can be consumed at one time. The procedure is usually done laparoscopically, involving several small incisions rather than a large one, leading to less scarring and a quicker recovery time.
By reducing the size of the stomach, VSG helps patients feel full more quickly, limiting their food intake and promoting weight loss. Additionally, the surgery may also alter certain gut hormones, which can help suppress appetite and improve metabolism. VSG does not involve rerouting or bypassing the intestines, making it different from other weight loss surgeries like gastric bypass.
VSG is considered a major surgical procedure and is typically recommended for individuals with severe obesity or those who have not achieved substantial weight loss through conservative methods such as diet and exercise. It often serves as a precursor to more complex weight loss surgeries in some cases. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including infection, bleeding, and potential complications related to anesthesia. Therefore, VSG should only be considered after careful evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.
