Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is an innovative and minimally invasive weight loss procedure. It provides a safer alternative for individuals who want to lose weight but prefer not to undergo traditional bariatric surgery. By significantly reducing the stomach’s size, ESG helps patients eat less, feel full faster, and achieve long-term weight loss. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about ESG, including the procedure, benefits, risks, recovery, and tips for success.
What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?
ESG is a non-surgical weight loss procedure performed using an endoscopic suturing device. This device reduces the size of the stomach without any incisions. A flexible tube equipped with a tiny camera and suturing tools operates inside the stomach to create a narrow sleeve, similar to the shape achieved through gastric sleeve surgery.
Unlike traditional bariatric surgery methods, such as gastric bypass or laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, ESG involves no cutting or removal of stomach tissue. It is a minimally invasive procedure designed to help patients reduce calorie intake and promote sustainable weight loss.
Who is a Candidate for ESG?
The best candidates for ESG are individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher who have not been successful with diet and exercise alone. These patients may also have health conditions associated with excess weight, such as:
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High blood pressure
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Type 2 diabetes
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Sleep apnea
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Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
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Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Patients must be committed to making lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet and incorporating regular exercise, to ensure the procedure’s success. ESG is unsuitable for those with large hiatal hernias, stomach ulcers, or certain chronic health conditions. A thorough consultation and laboratory tests will determine eligibility.
How Does the ESG Procedure Work?
Pre-Procedure Preparation
Preparation is a critical part of the endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty procedure. Patients must:
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Follow a liquid diet for a few days before the procedure.
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Avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight the day before the procedure.
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Arrange for someone to drive them home, as general anesthesia will be used.
The Procedure
The ESG is performed in an endoscopy suite as an outpatient procedure. Most patients can return home the same day. The key steps include:
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Patients are placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort.
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A flexible tube with a tiny camera and a suturing device is inserted through the mouth into the stomach.
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Using the endoscopic suturing device, the surgeon creates a series of folds in the stomach tissue, reducing its capacity by about 70%.
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The process creates a smaller stomach shaped like an accordion, allowing patients to consume less food and feel full faster.
The entire procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes.
Benefits of ESG
Minimally Invasive
ESG is a minimally invasive approach to weight loss, involving no external incisions. This reduces the risk of serious complications like pulmonary embolism, infections, or scarring.
Effective Weight Loss
Patients can expect to lose between 15-20% of their total body weight within the first year. This reduction is similar to some other bariatric procedures, like gastric sleeve surgery, but without the need for major surgery.
Improvement in Health Conditions
Significant weight loss from ESG often leads to improvements or resolution of obesity-related conditions, such as:
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Fatty liver disease
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High blood pressure
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Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
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Heart disease
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) vs. Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG): Key Differences Explained
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a non-surgical procedure using an endoscope to reduce stomach size with sutures. Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG) involves surgery to remove a portion of the stomach, permanently reshaping it into a sleeve-like structure. ESG offers quicker recovery and fewer risks than LSG. LSG provides more significant weight loss results but requires longer downtime and carries surgical risks. Both target obesity but suit different patient needs and preferences.
What to Expect After ESG
Immediate Recovery
After the procedure, patients usually experience mild abdominal pain, nausea, or a sore throat. These symptoms typically resolve within a few days. Patients can return home on the same day and do not need to stay overnight.
Dietary Restrictions
Recovery involves a strict diet to allow the stomach to heal and adjust. The progression is as follows:
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Week 1: Patients start with a liquid diet consisting of clear broths, protein shakes, and water.
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Weeks 2-3: Patients transition to soft foods, such as pureed fruits, vegetables, and yogurt.
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Week 4: Gradual reintroduction of solid foods begins, with a focus on healthy diet choices.
Patients must follow their doctor’s guidelines to prevent complications and support healing. Download our ESG diet guidelines to know more about this topic.
Long-Term Adjustments
For long-term success, patients must commit to:
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Regular exercise to maintain weight loss.
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A balanced diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
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Participation in a weight loss program or behavioral therapy for additional support.
Risks and Considerations
While ESG is generally safe, it carries some risks, including:
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Stomach ulcers
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Vitamin deficiencies due to reduced food intake.
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Leaks in the stomach tissue (a rare but serious complication).
The procedure is potentially reversible if necessary, but this is rarely required. Most patients experience minimal complications when following their care team’s recommendations.
ESG vs. Other Bariatric Procedures
ESG vs. Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty is less invasive than gastric sleeve surgery. It does not involve the permanent removal of stomach tissue, making it a more attractive option for patients concerned about reversibility.
ESG vs. Gastric Bypass
While gastric bypass may lead to faster weight loss, ESG has a shorter recovery time and fewer risks. Patients also avoid the malabsorption issues often associated with gastric bypass.
Insurance and Cost
Many patients wonder if their health insurance will cover ESG. While not all plans include this procedure, some policies provide coverage after obtaining insurance approval. Patients should consult their provider for specific details.
Long-Term Success with ESG
The endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty procedure is not a quick fix. Its success depends on the patient’s ability to make lasting lifestyle changes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including dietary restrictions and regular exercise, is essential. Patients should also avoid behaviors that may lead to weight gain, such as overeating or consuming high-calorie foods.
Support from a weight loss program, coupled with routine follow-ups with the medical team, ensures that patients can sustain their results. ESG offers a safer and effective path to long-term weight loss, helping individuals achieve their weight loss goals while improving their overall health.
Is ESG Right for You?
If you are struggling with obesity or related health conditions and want to avoid traditional bariatric surgery, ESG may be the ideal solution. It provides significant weight loss without the risks associated with surgical options.
Take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle and lasting transformation. Schedule your consultation with IBI Healthcare today. Start your journey to a smaller stomach, less food, and a brighter, healthier future!
