Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a safe and advanced, non-surgical weight loss procedure designed for patients with obesity who have not achieved satisfactory results through diet and exercise alone. This modern endoscopic technique does not require open surgery or external incisions, resulting in minimal discomfort, no visible scars, and a faster recovery time.
At Thainakarin Hospital, ESG is performed by a highly experienced multidisciplinary medical team, including specialists in advanced endoscopic and bariatric surgery, endocrinology, cardiology, and otolaryngology (ENT). Each patient undergoes a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure the procedure is appropriate, safe, and tailored to individual health needs.
What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)?
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a minimally invasive obesity treatment that uses an endoscope to place sutures inside the stomach, reducing its volume without surgical removal of any part of the stomach.
By decreasing the stomach’s capacity, ESG helps patients feel full more quickly and consume smaller portions, leading to effective and sustainable weight loss—without the need for abdominal surgery.
Key Benefits of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
- Minimally Invasive and Safe
ESG is performed through the mouth using an endoscope, leaving no external scars and significantly reducing the risk of infection and surgical complications. - Less Pain and Faster Recovery
Most patients can return home on the same day or the following day and resume daily activities shortly thereafter. - Effective Weight Loss
Patients typically lose approximately 15–20% of their total body weight within one year, especially when combined with proper dietary and lifestyle modifications.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for ESG?
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty may be appropriate for individuals who meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 30 kg/m² with unsuccessful weight loss through diet and exercise
- Patients with Class III obesity who are at high risk for complications related to major bariatric surgery
- Individuals who prefer a non-surgical weight loss option due to concerns about surgical risks
- Patients with Class I or II obesity seeking to prevent progression to more severe obesity and reduce obesity-related comorbidities
Who Should Not Undergo ESG?
ESG may not be suitable for patients with:
- Active gastrointestinal ulcers
- Hiatal hernia
- Bleeding disorders or abnormal coagulation conditions
A thorough medical assessment is required prior to the procedure.
ESG Procedure at Thainakarin Hospital
The Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes approximately 90 minutes.
Step-by-Step ESG Treatment
- Comprehensive Patient Evaluation
The multidisciplinary medical team assesses the patient’s overall health, medical history, and suitability for ESG. - Endoscopic Procedure
A specialized endoscope is introduced through the mouth, and sutures are placed inside the stomach using an advanced suturing technique. - Post-Procedure Care and Lifestyle Guidance
Patients receive individualized advice on dietary changes, eating behaviors, and lifestyle adjustments to support long-term weight loss success.
How is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty Performed?
- The physician inserts an endoscope through the mouth and advances it into the stomach.
- The front and back walls of the stomach are marked along the planned suture line.
- Approximately eight suture points are placed using a continuous running stitch pattern.
- The sutures are tightened to bring the stomach walls together, reducing the stomach volume by approximately 70%.
This reshaping creates a tubular or “sleeve-like” stomach, which gives the procedure its name. The sutures do not dissolve spontaneously; instead, the stomach tissue heals around them to maintain the new structure. The suturing material is biocompatible and can be removed if reversal of the procedure is necessary.
Can ESG Be Repeated?
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty can be repeated if the stomach stretches or the sutures loosen, typically 2–3 years after the initial procedure. The likelihood of stretching depends on several factors, including:
- Post-procedure eating habits, particularly overeating or frequent consumption of high-calorie foods
- Individual physiological factors, such as tissue elasticity and healing response
With proper adherence to medical recommendations and regular follow-up, long-term outcomes are generally favorable.
Expected Outcomes After ESG
- Average weight loss of 15–20% of total body weight within the first year
- Improvement in obesity-related conditions, including:
- Better blood sugar control
- Reduced blood pressure
- Improvement of fatty liver disease
- Reduced sleep apnea symptoms
- Lower risk of cardiovascular disease
Optimal results are achieved when ESG is combined with lifestyle modification and regular medical follow-up.
Safety and Possible Side Effects
- The incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is lower compared to surgical sleeve gastrectomy
- Temporary side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort may occur but usually resolve without complications
Why Choose Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty at Thainakarin Hospital?
- Procedures performed by an experienced team of advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) and obesity specialists
- Use of state-of-the-art endoscopic technology and international-standard equipment
- Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care—from pre-procedure evaluation to long-term follow-up—to ensure optimal patient outcomes
Contact Thainakarin Hospital
If you are seeking a safe, effective, and sustainable approach to weight loss, Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) at Thainakarin Hospital may be the right solution for you.
📞 Tel: +66 2 340 7777
🌐 Website: www.thainakarin.co.th
Start your journey toward better health today at Thainakarin Hospital.
