Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is an emerging procedure that has captured the attention of both clinicians and patients. This innovative technique offers a non-surgical alternative for weight loss by reshaping the stomach to limit its capacity. Let's examine the procedure's mechanics, patient benefits, and the outcomes patients can anticipate.

What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?

The Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty, ESG for short, is a minimally invasive procedure conducted via an endoscope—a flexible tube with a camera and suturing device that enters through the mouth. Under general anesthesia, we place sutures in the stomach to separate a portion of the stomach, making it about 70-80% smaller. This consequently reduces the stomach volume and the amount of food it can hold.

The sutures, which are made of a durable and permanent material, will remain in your stomach, but over time, your stomach will grow new tissue over the sutures. This new tissue seals off the reduced stomach – which is now more of a tube shape.

The ESG procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes to perform and doesn't involve any external incisions, which inherently reduces post-operative risks and complications.

Advantages of a Minimally Invasive Approach

The minimally invasive nature of ESG is a significant advantage—it leads to a lower risk of infection, a shorter hospital stay (often with same-day discharge), and a quicker recovery time. Patients can usually resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure, with less discomfort than traditional surgery.

The patient will still need to follow a post-op diet that is broken into several stages, but patients do not need to maintain a strict vitamin regimen post-surgery, such as with laparoscopic bariatric procedures.

Who is a Candidate for the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty is suited for individuals with a BMI of 30 or above who haven't seen results from diet and exercise alone, and for those who either cannot undergo or choose not to have more invasive bariatric surgery. A thorough consultation with a bariatric specialist is necessary to assess if ESG is an appropriate option.

The ESG is also an ideal procedure type for patients who are battling co-morbidities due to weight gain, including but not limited to:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
• High Cholesterol
• Asthma
• Sleep Apnea
• Joint Problems
• Heart Disease

ESG's Role in Weight Loss and Health

The goal of the ESG procedure is to facilitate weight loss. It’s not an instant solution but a tool to help reduce caloric intake and promote a healthier lifestyle. Beyond weight reduction, the procedure can improve or resolve conditions tied to obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. Moreover, weight loss through ESG can reduce joint stress, improving mobility and decreasing pain.

Yet, success with ESG hinges on a patient's commitment to adopt long-term lifestyle changes. This includes adhering to a nutritionally balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and attending follow-up appointments.

In Conclusion

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty is a new bariatric procedure that aligns with the current trend toward less invasive medical interventions. For patients seeking weight loss through a non-surgical method, ESG offers a potent alternative. Though FDA-approved, most insurance companies are not covering the ESG procedure at this time. To help our patients pay for surgery, we are offering a special introductory rate of $9,999* (regularly $11,999).

Price includes:

• Initial Consultation
• Comprehensive Bariatric Nutrition Consultation
• Surgeon fee
• Facility fee
• Anesthesia fee
• Post-op visit
• 12 months of follow-up care with Nurse Practitioner and/or Registered Dietician

*Price does not include pre-op testing or medications

Get started on your journey to better health by scheduling an appointment with The Longstreet Clinic Center for Weight Management to learn about this new procedure and special offer. The Center for Weight Management also offers a variety of payment plans and financing options. Read more about those here.