StomaphyX Surgery

StomaphyX is a weight-loss procedure in which the volume of the stomach is reduced resulting in decreased food intake and early satiety. The procedure involves folding and fastening parts of the stomach pouch and is performed in an endoscopic manner without the need for incisions.

Overview.

Obesity is an excess of total body fat which results from caloric intake that exceeds energy usage. A measurement used to assess health risks of obesity is called Body Mass Index or BMI.

Weight loss surgery is recommended for those individuals with an elevated BMI who cannot lose weight by non-surgical measures such as diet and exercise.

Indications.

The StomaphyX procedure is mainly indicated for gastric bypass revision surgery. The procedure is suitable for individuals who have previously undergone gastric bypass surgery and have started to regain weight due to the stretching or enlargement of their stomach pouch. Individuals who find they need to eat larger servings or have an increased appetite may benefit from this procedure. StomaphyX surgery can reduce the volume of the stomach by up to 80 percent.

Surgical procedure.

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The stomach is first examined with the help of an endoscope passed through the mouth and down the esophagus. The endoscope is then replaced by the StomaphyX device and passed into the stomach. Parts of the stomach wall are sucked into the device creating folds called plications. Special fasteners staple the stomach wall holding the folds in place. These folds limit the food carrying capacity of the stomach making you feel full sooner and limiting your intake to smaller portions. The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes. The procedure may be repeated to increase the number of stomach folds to improve outcomes.

Post-Operative Care.

After the procedure, you may go home the same day or the following day. You may experience some soreness in your throat or abdominal discomfort for a few days which can be treated with medications prescribed by your doctor. You will need to

Avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks to allow the perforations made by the fasteners to heal without complications.

Take a few days off work to rest

Return to a post-gastric bypass diet of liquid and pureed foods for a few weeks to enable healing.

Risks and complications.

StomaphyX is associated with minimal risks as no incisions are made during the procedure, but as is with any procedure complications may occur and can include bleeding, perforation and anesthetic risks.

The procedure is reversible if needed and sometimes a second surgery is necessary to obtain the desired weight loss results.

The StomaphyX procedure is a relatively new procedure suitable for patients who have previously undergone gastric bypass surgery and have started to regain weight due to the stretching or enlarging of their stomach pouch.

Talk with your doctor if you have any concerns regarding the procedure.