OverStitch

OverStitch is a suturing device used to place sutures on internal tissues in a minimally invasive manner. It can be used to perform a bariatric procedure called sleeve gastroplasty that is designed to reduce the volume of the stomach.

The procedure is performed through a thin flexible tube called an endoscope that is inserted through the mouth to reach the stomach. It involves the placement of a row of stitches within the stomach along the greater (outer) curve which when tightened creates folds or plications that reduce the size of the stomach. About 5-6 running stitches are placed. The plications extend almost to the junction of the stomach and oesophagus. A similar row of interrupted or running stitches are placed along the lesser (inner) curve creating a sleeve. This procedure considerably reduces the size of the stomach promoting early satiety and reduced food intake responsible for weight loss. The OverStitch system allows this procedure to be performed without a single external incision.