Sclerotherapy is an endoscopic technique used to help patients who have already had Gastric Bypass maintain weight loss. This procedure is used for those patients who have stalled with their weight loss or have gained weight back. It is imperative that patients with Gastric Bypass utilize the pouch as a tool for weight loss by avoiding soft, high calorie foods and calorie containing liquids. Success in weight loss after Gastric Bypass requires a change in eating habits. This technique can help re-establish proper eating behaviors.
The procedure involves injecting a solution around the anastomosis, narrowing the opening at the bottom of the pouch. This helps to keep food in the pouch longer, providing a prolonged sense of fullness. Research has shown that it works best to maintain weight loss. Patients will need to limit calorie intake to lose additional weight.
The benefits of Sclerotherapy are that it is a safe, outpatient procedure, covered by most insurances, helps to re-create a sense of fullness, and can assist with additional weight loss.
As with any surgical procedure, complications can include pain, nausea, vomiting, dysphagia and infection. A more complete list of complications is discussed on the consent form.