Deciphering the sleeve: technique, indications, efficacy, and safety of sleeve gastrectomy

Some institutions perform sleeve gastrectomy (SG) as the initial operation for high-risk, high body mass index patients planning a definitive weight loss operation in 12-18 months. Other institutions consider SG a viable alternative to other bariatric operations. SG is frequently debated among the bariatric surgeons. Many questions remain about the current state of SG. Should it be performed as a definitive weight loss procedure or as a bridge for another bariatric procedure? Is there a specific BMI at which point SG should be encouraged? Is the weight loss comparable to other bariatric procedures? Is there a higher risk of gastric leak? What is the appropriate sleeve size? What are the hormonal benefits? Does SG predispose to gastroesophageal reflux disease? What is the mechanism of weight loss? Are long-term results available? And what are the complications? We conducted an extensive literature review aiming to resolve these commonly asked questions.