THE ENDOSCOPIC SLEEVE GASTROPLASTY (ESG): BENEFITS, RISKS, RESULTS AND COST
To fight against obesity, you can choose among various types of bariatric surgery or go for an Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG).
Among the bariatric surgery options, you have the gastric band, the sleeve gastrectomy, and the gastric bypass surgery. In this case, the patients need to undergo a method called laparoscopy. This surgical technique involves making 3 to 4 small cuts in the abdomen. Then, through these small keyhole incisions, different instruments are introduced in the abdomen to perform the surgery.
But are you looking for a non-surgical technique instead? Today, people can choose non-surgical weight loss methods to achieve long-term results.
In this article, we will talk about the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty.
What is the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?
The Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a non-traditional intervention that is considered an effective alternative to the established weight-loss options. It is a minimally invasive technique used for stomach reduction, which guarantees a reduced complication rate.
When you opt for this endoscopic procedure, there are no external incisions. Also, the ESG is performed as an in-and-out procedure under general anesthesia.
The ESG consists of creating a series of internal sutures in the stomach wall. This reduces the size of the gastric cavity and prevents its distension.
Consequently, this non-surgical weight-loss procedure is a restrictive technique.
After the ESG, you will feel full faster. In other words, this procedure generates preventive satiety. Also, the gastric emptying of the stomach will slow down. As a result, the procedure will alleviate hunger pangs.

Medically reviewed by Dr Osama Bahsas Zaky (Bariatric surgery specialist)
Written by Joaquín Pineda
Updated on June 28, 2021