Although, according to the medical literature, the LSG does carry similar early post-operative risk as the Laparoscopic Roux en Y Gastric Bypass (LRYGB), it appears to have very few problems that occur beyond the first week after surgery. It does not have the long-term problems of the LRYGB, i.e., marginal ulcers, small bowel obstruction, or vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Similarly, there is no foreign body which can slip (prolapse) or erode into the stomach as can happen with the Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band Operation (LAGB). Also, the LSG does not require adjustment, like the LAGB, and produces significant weight loss in the first few months.
Current data indicate that the weight loss from the LSG is superior in the first few years, as compared to the LAGB. An adequate comparison between the LSG and the LRYGB has not been done. However, weight loss in our series of patients has been within 10-15% of that noted after the LRYGB. Importantly, the co-morbidities that are associated with morbid obesity – diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, etc. – also appear to be cured or improved in similar percentages as those achieved with the LRYGB. Long-term data is not yet available to ensure that results are long-lived. Despite this, we remain cautiously optimistic the LSG will continue to be an excellent choice as a surgical means of curing morbid obesity.