What is the ESG Managed Weight Loss Programme?
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is the term given to a new weight loss procedure pioneered in 2012 and is now in use in a number of centres around the world. ESG is an incisionless procedure that uses an endoscope which can suture the stomach. The stomach volume is reduced by 50-70%. This is accomplished by a series of endoscopically placed sutures extending from the bottom 1/3 of the stomach to the upper stomach creating a “sleeve”. The procedure results in feeling full with reduced food intake and slowed gastric emptying, so that you feel full quicker and do not become hungry for a longer period of time.
Your initial appointment will be with a Gastroenterologist. At this initial consultation you will be assessed as to whether endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a procedure that is appropriate for you. The procedure will be discussed in more detail and you will be able to ask questions. Other family members or support people are welcome to attend this appointment. Before this appointment you will have been given a form for fasting blood tests, and Helicobacter pylori serology test to exclude the presence of Helicobacter pylori. If the serology test is positive, you will be given treatment to eradicate these bacteria which can cause inflammation and ulcers in the stomach, before the ESG is undertaken.
ESG is undertaken using the OverstitchTM; Apollo Endosurgery device which attaches to the endoscope and performed under general anaesthesia. The procedure and changes made to the stomach are considered permanent. Although there is the possibility of reversing the changes, this is very rarely undertaken.
This procedure does NOT involve removal of any of the stomach as occurs with surgical laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy’s and bypass procedures undertaken for weight loss. As a result, the procedure is significantly safer with a faster recovery time.
To achieve the best results, a multi-disciplinary approach is used. The program that has been developed incorporates regular clinical reviews with the gastroenterologist, specialist ESG nursing staff, dietitian and psychologist, to help you achieve the best possible outcome.