Bariatric Surgery Procedures for Teens & Young Adults
Our goal at the SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital Healthy First Bariatric Surgery Program in St. Louis is to help you achieve a healthier and more fulfilled life. We offer the following approved weight-loss surgical procedures for teens and young adults: sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.
Our specially trained health care providers understand the unique physical, social, and emotional challenges your adolescent faces. We are committed to providing you with the knowledge and support necessary for long-term weight-loss success.
What is a Sleeve Gastrectomy?
During this procedure, also known as a vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), approximately 60-80% of the stomach is removed. The left side of the stomach, or “greater curvature,” is removed, resulting in a stomach the size and shape of a banana. This new stomach continues to function normally; however, the quantity of food that you can consume will be reduced. In addition, the surgery removes the portion of the stomach that secretes hormones to stimulate hunger, so you will likely feel less hungry after the procedure, which further aids in weight loss.
Generally, individuals lose about 60% of their excess weight with this procedure. The sleeve gastrectomy is performed laparoscopically. This surgery uses specialized instruments that are inserted through small incisions made in the abdominal wall. This technique promotes faster healing and recovery, decreases pain, and decreases the chance of infection.
What are the key benefits of a sleeve gastrectomy?
Sleeve gastrectomy offers certain benefits over other laparoscopic weight-loss procedures.
Simpler Form of Bariatric Surgery
A sleeve gastrectomy is a technically simpler operation because it does not involve any “rerouting” or reconnecting of the intestines.
Low Risk of Vitamin & Protein Deficiencies
The risk of certain complications, such as vitamin and protein deficiencies, is minimal since there is no intestinal bypass involved in the procedure.
Easily Modified
This procedure is relatively easy to modify should more weight loss be desired or should weight gain reoccur.
Low Risk of Obstructions
This procedure carries a lower risk of intestinal obstruction and food moving too quickly through the small intestine (dumping syndrome).
Is Bariatric Surgery Effective?
Bariatric surgery effectively treats obesity in people for whom measures such as diet and exercise alone are not enough. This surgery can improve the patient’s quality of life and may also help resolve conditions that often coincide with obesity.
Bariatric surgery is an effective tool that can help you achieve substantial weight loss, and is endorsed by many renowned organizations including:
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
- American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) Childhood Obesity Subcommittee
- American College of Surgeons (ACS)
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Pediatric Subcommittee
- International Pediatric Endosurgery Group (IPEG)
Our team includes the most experienced surgeons and clinicians in the region, and we are committed to helping you lose weight successfully. From educating you and your support team about the surgical procedures, to creating a comprehensive diet and exercise plan, to providing post-surgery support, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
You can be assured that the team at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital will approach your care with the expertise and compassion you deserve. Register for an informational seminar or call us at 314-577-5335 to learn how we can help you get started - and succeed - on your weight loss journey.