Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)

What it is:

ESG is a non-surgical, endoscopic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light) to reduce the size of the stomach.

How it works:

An endoscope is inserted into the stomach, and a suturing device attached to it is used to create folds in the stomach lining, effectively reducing its volume. These folds, sometimes referred to as "accordion folds", make the stomach smaller and tube-like, limiting the amount of food that can be eaten. With a smaller stomach, you feel full sooner and tend to eat less, leading to weight loss.

Who it's for:

Individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher who haven't been able to maintain weight loss through diet and exercise alone.
People who don't qualify for or prefer traditional bariatric surgery.

Benefits:

ESG is a non-surgical, endoscopic procedure that reduces the risk of complications and allows for a quicker recovery.
Potentially significant weight loss, often 15-20% of excess weight.
May improve or resolve obesity-related conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea.

Risks:

While generally safe, potential complications include pain, nausea, and vomiting, which are usually managed with medication.
ESG is not designed to be a temporary procedure, but it can be converted to another bariatric surgery if needed.

Procedure:

Performed as an outpatient procedure in an endoscopy unit.
General anesthesia is used, so you'll be in a sleep-like state during the procedure.
The procedure takes about 1 to 2.5 hours.

Post-procedure:

You'll wake up in a recovery room and most people go home the same day.
You'll start with a liquid diet for a few weeks, gradually transitioning to a regular healthy diet.

Important Considerations:

ESG is most effective when combined with lifestyle changes, including dietary changes, regular exercise, and behavioral therapy.

Not everyone is a good candidate for ESG, and a screening process is necessary to determine if the procedure is right for you.

ESG may not be covered by health insurance.