Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) is a type of weight loss surgery that reduces the size of the stomach to limit food intake, leading to weight loss. During the procedure, the surgeon removes about 80% of the stomach, leaving a pouch about the size of a banana. VSG is a minimally invasive procedure that is typically performed laparoscopically, which involves inserting small incisions.

VSG is used to treat severe obesity and is advised for people who have tried other weight loss methods without long-term success. It is only offered to qualified people who have serious medical conditions related to their obesity or are at high risk for developing them. The surgery can improve and sometimes eliminate diseases, including insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes, hypertension and hypertensive heart disease, hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol) and arterial disease.

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with VSG, including trouble getting enough vitamins and minerals, the possibility of regaining weight, and the sleeve widening over time. Patients who undergo VSG may need to take a daily multivitamin, plus a calcium-vitamin D supplement, and may need additional nutrients, such as vitamin B-12 or iron.

Before qualifying for VSG, patients are required to spend three to six months on a medically supervised weight loss plan and meet with a team of dietitians, psychologists, and other medical specialists for counseling and screening. The average weight loss after VSG is 25% to 30% of the body weight in the first one year.

In summary, VSG is a type of weight loss surgery that reduces the size of the stomach to limit food intake, leading to weight loss. It is used to treat severe obesity and is advised for people who have tried other weight loss methods without long-term success. As with any surgery, there are risks associated with VSG, and patients may need to take supplements to ensure they get enough vitamins and minerals.