da Vinci Sleeve Gastrectomy Procedure
High-Tech Surgery for Bariatric PatientsThe da Vinci surgical system can help renew your body
Serious weight loss can be the life-saving solution to several health concerns. Losing weight permanently can be achieved through a range of surgical procedures offered by miVIP. A gastric sleeve operation is a minimally invasive procedure that changes the size and shape of the stomach while still allowing it to retain normal function. The high-tech da Vinci surgical system makes it possible to conduct this procedure with unmatched precision.
The precise execution of the da Vinci sleeve gastrectomy procedure is made possible by the use of a very small camera that is inserted into the patient’s abdomen during surgery. This camera allows the surgical team to get a three dimensional look at the stomach and thoracic cavity. The surgeon will then use the “arms” of the da Vinci system to remove 80% - 85% of your stomach.
Potential candidates for da Vinci sleeve gastrectomy surgery typically:
Have a BMI score of 40 or higher
Are not dependent on illegal drugs or alcohol
Have a medical condition related to obesity (such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, or heart disease)
Are mentally ready to make a life-changing decision
How is the surgery performed?
This procedure is performed under general anesthesia; you will be in a deep sleep and will not experience any pain during the operation. In minimally invasive surgery (MIS) the incisions made by the surgeon will as small as .5 cm (1/5”) long. These small cuts will allow access to the inside of your body. The da Vinci system is capable of making incisions even smaller than those typically associated with minimally invasive surgery.
Once the three dimensional camera has been put into place the surgeon will remove part of your stomach. Surgical staples will be used to close and reshape the stomach to its final form. A new connection between the stomach and small intestine will also need to be created. The da Vinci system helps the surgeon make the precise stitches necessary for this connection.
The surgeons at miVIP
The surgical team working at miVIP hails from several disciplines and all are focused on providing the best in patient care. Members of the team have received numerous honors and top medical recognitions. Our top-rated surgical team includes book authors, speakers, and authors of peer reviewed journal articles documenting their on-going investigation into health and healing.
What to expect after the procedure
Patients recovering from a gastric sleeve operation can expect to feel pain and tenderness near the surgical site for 1 – 2 weeks. Since the surgery reshapes your stomach the procedure is irreversible. Your doctor will instruct you to eat only soft foods for the first few weeks and to drink a lot of water. Over a period of six weeks solid foods can be gradually reintroduced. You will need to plan your meals carefully to ensure that you are getting sufficient nutrition; avoid high calorie drinks such as soda. Most patients can resume normal activities 4 – 6 weeks after a da Vince sleeve gastrectomy procedure.
Cost of procedure
The patient is responsible for the cost of the surgery and any related treatments. Each miVIP patient will get to work with a personal advocate that will assist them with billing and payment process. Your advocate can help you obtain a letter of medical necessity; this letter can help secure successful coverage from your insurance company.
The miVIP team can also assist with insurance pre-authorization and provides free benefit verification. It is the patient’s responsibility to pay for any portion of the surgery and treatment that their insurance does not.
Long term prognosis and other information regarding procedure
Patients who have undergone a da Vinci sleeve gastrectomy can expect to lose around 55% of their excess weight over a period of 2 – 3 years. As you lose weight, obesity-related health concerns may begin to recede; your overall health may also see significant improvement. You will need to follow your doctor’s dietary guidelines to ensure that you receive optimal nutrition levels and it may be necessary to supplement your diet with vitamins.
To learn about the miVIP’s revolutionary da Vinci surgical system and the procedures it can help perform, simply call 855-496-4847.
