Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG)

Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is a procedure completed laparoscopically or though open surgery. According to a December 2008 article published in Obesity Care News, about 20,000 VSG procedures are completed annually. The procedure involves the process of removing about 85% of the stomach, leaving a cylindrical, or .sleeve.-shaped stomach that can hold up to 6 ounces of food after the surgery. During the surgery, a thin cylinder called a bougie is inserted into what will be the remaining portion of the stomach in order to create the correct width and sleeve shape. The open side of the stomach is stapled shut and the surgeon makes sure there are no leaks before closing up the laparoscopic opening. Unlike gastric banding, this procedure is permanent because the unused portion of the stomach is removed.

The cost of this procedure ranges from $8,000-$20,000, and is still largely experimental. Because of this, most insurance providers will not cover any portions of the cost.

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