OverStitch Outlet Revision

What is OverStitch Outlet Revision?

OverStitch is a specialized suturing system used to place sutures on internal tissues in a minimally invasive manner. It can be used to revise gastric bypass surgery. Gastric bypass is a weight loss procedure which involves dividing the stomach to create a small pouch which is attached to the small intestine after bypassing the rest of the stomach and an upper segment of the small intestine. This is done to reduce the size of the stomach and the absorption of food through the intestine.

However, the stomach pouch and its opening (outlet) into the intestine may gradually expand with time increasing the capacity to hold food leading to weight regain.

The OverStitch system is used to reduce the size of the outlet as well as the stomach pouch to effectively reverse this condition and promote weight loss. Indicated in gastric bypass patients with weight regain and is usually performed as a day case incisionless treatment.

How is the procedure performed?

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia using a thin flexible tube called an endoscope that is inserted through the mouth to reach the stomach. The OverStitch system is inserted through the endoscope and used to place stitches at the opening between the stomach pouch and intestine to reduce the size of the outlet. Additional stitches are placed on the wall of the pouch and when tightened creates folds or plications that reduce the size of the pouch. The OverStitch system accomplishes outlet revision without the need of any incisions. The entire procedure may take about an hour. Postoperative pain is usually minimal and recovery quick.