Endoscopic bariatric procedures

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty 

The ESG procedure, used alongside lifestyle and diet changes, is intended to help you lose weight and in turn help prevent or improve many health problems that are associated with excess body weight, including:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
• Heart Disease
• Joint Problems
• High Cholesterol
• Asthma
• Sleep Apnea

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty

Gastric balloon is a nonsurgical, outpatient procedure that promotes weight loss by restricting food intake. Through endoscopy, a surgeon places a silicone balloon that is about the size of a  grapefruit or a softball into the stomach, making the patient feel fuller faster after a meal.

During the approximately 30-minute outpatient procedure under sedation, a silicone gastric balloon is delivered by an endoscope through the patient’s mouth, into their stomach. The balloon is inflated with saline solution to partially fill the stomach, leaving less room for large amounts of food and liquids. The balloon is then retrieved after 6 months. 

Who it’s for

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is typically recommended for individuals who are overweight or obese and have struggled to lose weight through conventional methods such as diet and exercise. Specifically, ESG may be considered for:

1. BMI Criteria: ESG is often suitable for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30 and 40, although this can vary based on individual health considerations.
2. Obesity-Related Health Conditions: It may be recommended for those with obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.
3. Risk Profile: Individuals who may not be suitable candidates for more invasive weight loss surgeries, such as gastric bypass, due to their overall health or risk factors, might find ESG to be a viable alternative.
4. Commitment to Lifestyle Changes: Like other weight loss procedures, ESG is most effective when combined with long-term lifestyle modifications, including a healthy diet and regular exercise. Individuals considering ESG should be committed to making and maintaining these changes.

It’s important for individuals interested in ESG to undergo a thorough evaluation by healthcare professionals, including a bariatric specialist, to determine eligibility and discuss the potential benefits and risks based on their specific health circumstances.

Advantages of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) offers several advantages as a non-surgical weight loss procedure:

1. Minimally Invasive: ESG is a minimally invasive procedure performed endoscopically, meaning it is done through the mouth without the need for incisions. This typically results in less pain, a shorter recovery time, and a reduced risk of complications compared to traditional surgical interventions.
2. Reduced Stomach Size: ESG involves suturing and reshaping the stomach from the inside, leading to a reduction in its size. This restriction helps in controlling portion sizes and promoting weight loss.
3. No Permanent Alterations: Unlike some other weight loss surgeries, ESG does not involve the removal or permanent alterations to the digestive anatomy. The procedure is reversible, and the stomach can regain its normal shape if needed.
4. Lower Risk of Nutrient Deficiency: Since ESG does not reroute the digestive tract, there is a lower risk of nutrient malabsorption. This is an advantage over certain other weight loss procedures that may require more extensive changes to the gastrointestinal anatomy.
5. Shorter Recovery Time: Patients generally experience a quicker recovery time after ESG compared to traditional bariatric surgeries. Many individuals can resume normal activities within a few days.
6. Potential Improvement in Obesity-Related Conditions: ESG has been associated with improvements in obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.

While ESG offers these advantages, it is important for individuals considering the procedure to consult with healthcare professionals to determine eligibility, discuss potential risks, and receive personalized guidance based on their health status and weight loss goals.

Is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty worth it?

The decision of whether Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is “worth it” depends on individual factors, including weight loss goals, overall health, and personal preferences. ESG is a non-surgical procedure designed to assist with weight loss by reducing the size of the stomach using an endoscope. Some considerations include the potential benefits, such as significant weight loss and improvements in obesity-related conditions, coupled with the procedure’s minimally invasive nature, resulting in a shorter recovery time.

However, the effectiveness and appropriateness of ESG can vary from person to person. It is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals, including a bariatric specialist, to assess eligibility, discuss potential risks, and receive personalized advice based on your specific health circumstances. The decision to undergo ESG should be made after careful consideration of individual needs and in collaboration with a qualified medical team.

For inquiries or to schedule a consultation regarding Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG), we invite you to reach out to Dr. Terushkin. As a specialist in this non-surgical weight loss procedure, Dr. Terushkin is dedicated to providing personalized care and guidance to individuals seeking effective and minimally invasive solutions. To schedule a meeting or learn more about how ESG can support your weight loss goals, please contact us using the information provided on our official website or call our office directly. We look forward to assisting you on your journey to a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle.