For individuals struggling with weight loss, the Stomach Intestinal Pylorus-Sparing (SIPS) surgery presents a promising option. This article delves into the details of the SIPS procedure, its benefits, and important factors to consider.
What is SIPS Weight Loss Surgery?
Stomach Intestinal Pylorus-Sparing Surgery (SIPS) is a relatively new weight loss procedure that combines aspects of sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass. It assists patients in losing weight by reducing the size of their stomach and bypassing a portion of the food digestion process.
How Does SIPS Work?
The SIPS procedure involves removing approximately 85% of the stomach, leaving a small, tube-shaped stomach. Subsequently, the duodenum is separated from the remaining digestive tract, and a loop of the small intestine from the terminal ileum is connected to the stomach. This modification supports nutrient absorption.
SIPS vs. Other Weight Loss Surgeries
SIPS shares similarities with gastric bypass surgery but has a key difference. In gastric bypass, food bypasses the pyloric valve, which controls the rate at which food empties from the stomach into the small intestine. By preserving the pyloric valve, SIPS may offer certain advantages.
SIPS Weight Loss Surgery vs. Gastric Bypass
After gastric bypass surgery, food skips over the pyloric valve, the first part of the small intestine. The pyloric valve is a ring of muscles that controls how quickly food leaves the stomach and enters the small intestine.
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SIPS Weight Loss Surgery vs. Gastric Sleeve
Compared to gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery, SIPS can lead to more significant weight loss. SIPS can also help get your weight loss back on track if you have gained unwanted pounds after weight loss surgery.
Benefits of SIPS
Compared to older weight loss procedures, SIPS offers several benefits to patients.
- Better weight loss results: Compared to gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery, SIPS helps you lose more weight.
- High Resolution of Diabetes: SIPS is capable of producing a high resolution of diabetes.
- Reduced Blood Sugar Fluctuations: The procedure also causes less fluctuations in the patient’s blood sugar level, compared to gastric bypass.
The SIPS Procedure: What to Expect
Bariatric experts deliver the SIPS procedure through a minimally invasive approach, using the smallest necessary incisions.
- Anesthesia: You will receive general anesthesia to help you fall asleep during the procedure.
- Incisions: The surgeon makes up to 5 small incisions in your abdomen.
- Post-operative Care: As you are recovering from surgery, you receive regular follow-up care from the medical team.
Considerations Before Choosing SIPS
As with any medical procedure, there are risks and disadvantages to consider before moving forward.
- Cost: As a new treatment, SIPS may not yet be covered by insurance, requiring patients to pay out-of-pocket.
- Limited Long-Term Data: Researchers have not yet been able to fully assess the long-term effectiveness of SIPS in maintaining weight loss. We know that many patients achieve significant weight loss in the year after surgery.
- Patient Suitability: The procedure may not be suitable for patients with severe esophageal reflux and Barrett’s esophagus.
Is SIPS Right for You?
SIPS can be an ideal option for anyone who is looking for a more effective procedure than the sleeve gastrectomy sans the side-effects of the gastric bypass.
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If you are considering SIPS, it's important to determine if it's the right choice for you and how it can help you lose weight. It is also prescribed to patients who continue to gain weight after sleeve gastrectomy and those with Type-2 diabetes.
Accessing SIPS Surgery
SIPS is currently available through select bariatric programs. For example, Baptist Health offers SIPS through their Lexington program.
The Importance of Follow-Up Care
Throughout the weight loss journey, a dedicated team of bariatric experts delivers comprehensive care. Through regular follow-up visits and support group meetings, patients can adopt healthy habits and overcome challenges to achieve their goals.
Commitment to Quality and Value
Healthcare providers committed to providing high-quality care help patients get the most for their money. Some teams include surgeons recognized by organizations like Bundled Loan & Indemnity Solution (BLIS), which identifies high-performing surgeons for self-pay patients.
Innovative Weight Loss Treatments
Dedicated bariatric practices are always striving to deliver the best possible care. They are often among the first programs offering new treatments, including SIPS as well as other options like the ORBERA weight loss balloon.
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