Over the last 10 years, Sleeve Gastrectomy has become the most performed weight loss operation throughout the world. According to statistics, in the United Arab Emirates, 8 out of 10 weight loss procedures are Sleeve Gastrectomies. The reason for this popularity is predictable and enduring weight loss, coupled with the relative lack of long term complications.

Sleeve Gastrectomy is a weight loss procedure which involves reducing the size of the stomach to about a volume of 120 to 150 ml. The surgery is carried out laparoscopically using small keyhole incisions. The stomach is stapled and cut at the same time using a stapling device and sutures are applied to reinforce the staple line to minimize the chances of a leak.

• Weight loss following sleeve gastrectomy occurs due to several reasons:
• A reduction in the volume of food that can be consumed at a time
• A significant reduction in the levels of Ghrelin, a hormone responsible for generating hunger. Many patients also report a significant change in their food preferences, especially an aversion to sugars and carbohydrates
• Inability of the residual stomach to expand, as the stretchable part of the stomach is removed and the part that is left behind is relatively less compliant. This makes the stomach able to accommodate a moderate intake of food, but does not allow one to overeat
• The passage of food through the stomach is accelerated leading to early satiety which in effect reduces the intake without affecting the sense of satisfaction from eating.