Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) is a common surgical approach to weight loss that involves reducing the size of the stomach. Understanding the timeline for this procedure is important for managing expectations and preparing for the experience. The total time commitment on the day of surgery includes several distinct phases, from hospital admission to the operation and the immediate recovery period.
Pre-Surgical Preparation Timeline
The process on the day of surgery begins when patients arrive at the hospital or surgical center well in advance. This preparation phase typically takes between one to two hours from check-in until the operating room process begins. Patients complete final paperwork, change into a hospital gown, and move to a preparatory room where the surgical team introduces themselves.
A nurse will place an intravenous (IV) line to administer fluids and medication. The anesthesiologist will also meet with the patient to review their medical history and discuss the anesthesia plan. The surgical site may be cleaned with an antiseptic solution during this time. This period ensures all safety checks are completed and the patient is properly prepared before being transferred to the operating suite.
The Surgical Procedure Duration
The length of the VSG operation itself is generally rapid compared to other major surgeries. The actual time spent in the operating room, measured from the first incision to the final closure, typically ranges from 60 to 90 minutes. This duration reflects that VSG is a laparoscopic procedure, where the surgeon uses specialized instruments inserted through several small abdominal incisions.
During the operation, approximately 80% of the stomach is separated and removed, leaving a narrow, sleeve-shaped pouch. Several factors can influence the exact duration of the surgery, including the patient’s body mass index (BMI) and complex anatomy. For example, the presence of dense scar tissue from previous abdominal surgeries may require extra time to navigate and safely complete the procedure. A surgeon’s experience level also plays a role in the efficiency of the operation.
Immediate Post-Operative Recovery and Hospital Stay
Immediately following the surgery, the patient is transferred to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) for monitoring as they wake up from anesthesia. Patients typically spend about one to two hours in the PACU, where nurses track vital signs, pain levels, and neurological status. Once the patient is fully awake, stable, and pain is managed, they are moved to a standard hospital room.
The total hospital stay for a vertical sleeve gastrectomy is generally brief, lasting for one to three nights. This period ensures the patient can manage pain with oral medication, tolerate small amounts of clear liquids, and demonstrate mobility. Early mobilization, which means getting up and walking a few hours after surgery, is encouraged to prevent complications like blood clots. Discharge is authorized once these milestones are met, confirming the patient is stable enough to continue recovery at home.