The stomach is reduced in volume but tends to function normally so most food items can be consumed, albeit in small amounts.
Eliminates the portion of the stomach that produces the hormones that stimulates hunger (Ghrelin).
No dumping syndrome because the pylorus is preserved.
Minimizes the chance of an ulcer occurring.
By avoiding the intestinal bypass, the chance of intestinal obstruction (blockage), anemia, osteoporosis, protein deficiency and vitamin deficiency are almost eliminated.
Very effective as a first stage procedure for high BMI patients (BMI>55 kg/m2).
Limited results appear promising as a single stage procedure for low BMI patients (BMI 35-45 kg/m2).
Appealing option for people with existing anemia, Crohn's disease and numerous other conditions that make them too high risk for intestinal bypass procedures.
Can be done laparoscopically in patients weighing over 500 pounds.

Disadvantages of the Vertical Gastrectomy Weight Loss Surgery

Potential for inadequate weight loss or weight regain. While this is true for all procedures, it is theoretically more possible with procedures that do not have an intestinal bypass.
Higher BMI patients will most likely need to have a second stage procedure later to help lose the rest of the weight. Two stages may ultimately be safer and more effective than one operation for high BMI patients. This is an active point of discussion for bariatric surgeons.
Soft calories such as ice cream, milk shakes, etc can be absorbed and may slow weight loss.
This procedure does involve stomach stapling and therefore leaks and other complications related to stapling may occur.
Because the stomach is removed, it is not reversible. It can be converted to almost any other weight loss procedure.
Considered investigational by some surgeons and insurance companies.

Vertical Gastrectomy: Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there can be complications. This list can include:

Deep vein thrombophlebitis 0.5%
Non-fatal pulmonary embolus 0.5%
Pneumonia 0.2%
Acute respiratory distress syndrome 0.25%
Splenectomy 0.5%
Gastric leak and fistula 1.0%
Postoperative bleeding 0.5%
Small bowel obstruction 0.0%
Death 0.25%

Post-Op Dietary Plan for Vertical Gastrectomy Weight-Loss Surgery Patients

As with all surgical weight-loss programs, it is imperative that VG patients adhere to a strict postoperative diet. Patients must stick to a liquid-based diet for 2 weeks after surgery; 4-6 weeks after the operation, patients graduate to a 600-800 calorie/ day solid diet. Once goal weight is achieved, usually 1-2 years after surgery, most patients can consume about 1000-1200 calories per day.

Long-Term Weight-Loss Results

On average, patients who undergo Vertical Gastrectomy surgery experience 60-80% loss of excess weight.

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