The endoscopic gastric plication is performed so that no part of the abdomen is cut to access the stomach. Instead, a flexible tube known as an endoscope is passed through the mouth down the esophagus and into the stomach. During the procedure, the endoscopist -- usually a bariatric surgeon -- will stitch the stomach together. The sutures change the structure of your stomach by folding it over itself, leaving it shaped like a tube. The nonfunctional part of the stomach is not removed and remains in the abdomen.

This smaller functional stomach holds less food, which means you feel full faster, absorb fewer calories and lose weight over time. The new shape of your functional stomach also helps it empty into the intestines more slowly, and this helps you feel fuller longer.

Benefits of Endoscopic Gastric Plication

The endoscopic gastric plication is performed under general anesthesia and on an outpatient basis. This means most patients can leave the surgical facility the same day their procedure is performed.

Because the procedure is performed endoscopically, patients have a much lower risk of infection, blood loss, pain and other risks inherent to a surgical procedure. And the recovery time is significantly reduced when compared to surgery.

Who Is a Candidate for This Procedure?

Endoscopic gastric plication is an option if you're significantly overweight with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, and diet and exercise haven't worked for you.

With this procedure, patients have to make a commitment to a healthier lifestyle for it to be successful. Permanent positive changes to your diet and regular exercise are necessary for your endoscopic gastric plication to work long-term.

Endoscopic gastric plication isn't appropriate for anyone who has a large hiatal hernia or a condition associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, such as gastritis or peptic ulcer disease.

Endoscopic Gastric Plication FAQs

When combined with lifestyle modification, endoscopic gastric plication results in a loss of about 15 percent to 20 percent of your total body weight in one year.

You will get full after eating less than one cup of food. Water and other liquids will be digested without any issues.

After the procedure, you generally won't be allowed to eat for a few hours. Then, you'll start with a liquid diet, which you need to continue for two weeks. You'll progress to semi-solid foods and then to a regular healthy diet.

Yes, it reduces your risk of weight-related illness, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea or heart disease.

Although it's not designed to be a temporary procedure, endoscopic gastric plication can be converted to another bariatric surgery.