Stomach Intestinal Pylorus Preserving Surgery (SIPS) is a procedure that combines sleeve gastrectomy with a small bowel bypass.

If you are considering weight loss surgery, you might find it difficult to choose a procedure that is exactly right for you. If you’ve started the process of researching the various options available to you, you’ll know that it can be overwhelming to figure out just what benefits each procedure actually offers. One of the procedures that Dr Dolan offers is SIPS, which is essentially a modified version of the duodenal switch. The technique has been used for the last 30 years and combines the benefits of both sleeve gastrectomy and intestinal bypass. Read on to find out what the procedure involves and if it might be right for you…

How does it work, exactly?

SIPS combines two weight loss procedures: sleeve gastrectomy and intestinal bypass. During a sleeve gastrectomy, around two-thirds of the stomach is surgically removed. This results in a significantly reduced capacity for food, as well as a reduced level of ghrelin (the hormone that causes hunger). During intestinal bypass, the top part of the small bowel, known as the duodenum, is divided near the outlet of the stomach, which is known as the pylorus. The lower part of the small bowel, known as the ileum, is then joined to the top part of the small bowel. This process causes food to bypass part of the small intestine, reducing the absorption of consumed fats, sugars and calories.

Why choose a SIPS procedure?

There are a number of benefits to opting for a SIPS procedure. According to studies, the procedure can provide greater weight loss results than either a standard sleeve gastrectomy or a gastric bypass. Because both sleeve gastrectomy and intestinal bypass techniques are used, patients tend to enjoy the benefits of both of these procedures.

During the SIPS procedure, there is also less risk of dumping and diarrhoea when compared with other types of bypasses, and there also tends to be less risk of internal hernia.

It is important to note, however, that the procedure takes longer than many other available options, which means that you will be under anaesthetic for more time. There is also an increased risk of a leak because the procedure involves two staple lines — one for the sleeve gastrectomy, and one for the bypass.

How long does recovery take?

After your surgery is complete, you will need to spend up to three days in the hospital, during which time you will be given medications to relieve any post-operative pain. Once your surgical team deems you fit to be released, you will be allowed to go home. We recommend that you have someone drive you home.

At home, it is important that you stick to a liquid diet for around two weeks following your surgery. We will provide you with an eating plan and detailed instructions to ensure that you consume enough nutrients and that you stay hydrated while you recover.

Our team will advise you about when to resume your usual activities, and provide you with information about how to adjust to your new eating and exercise habits.

How can I ensure good results?

While weight loss procedures such as SIPS generally provide very good results, it is important to remember that certain lifestyle changes play a key role in reaching and maintaining healthy body weight. In order to get the most out of your procedure, we recommend that you make good nutrition and healthy eating habits a priority. As part of your post-operative care, you will have access to a qualified and experienced dietician who will be able to help you come up with a balanced and sustainable eating plan. It’s also important that you eat smaller portions than before, as your stomach’s capacity will be greatly reduced following SIPS.

We also encourage our patients to begin an exercise regime, which can be very helpful in maintaining a healthy weight. Our team includes an exercise physiologist, who will develop a training program tailored to your needs.

To find out more about SIPS and what the procedure involves, please take a look here.

To make an appointment for a consultation, please get in touch.