Stomaphyx is an endoscopic surgery for patients who have already had Gastric Bypass and desire additional weight loss and maintenance. 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.
This procedure involves placing small plastic sutures in and around the pouch, making the pouch smaller and stiffer, decreasing the amount of food that a patient can eat at one time. Stomaphyx is performed under general anesthesia, through the esophagus, without incisions.
Currently, this procedure is not covered by insurance and will cost approximately $7,500. (This fee includes hospital charges, anesthesia, Stomaphyx instrument and procedure.)
The benefits from Stomaphyx are that it is a safe procedure without incisions, a renewed restriction that limits food intake, and re-established weight loss.
Potential complications can include pain, nausea, vomiting, infection, dysphagia, perforation and bleeding. A more complete list of complications is discussed on the consent form.