A new minimally invasive weight loss procedure, called endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG), is now available at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta. The procedure involves stitching the stomach from the inside via a tube down the throat, reducing its size without incisions.
Performed under general anesthesia, ESG takes about 90 minutes and is intended to be permanent but reversible. Doctors call it a game-changer for patients with obesity.
The procedure can be combined with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro. While those drugs cost nearly $500 a month and often lead to weight regain if stopped, ESG offers a one-time solution.
Mary-Ann Thurber, 65, lost nearly 100 pounds after the procedure. She says recovery took just three weeks-half the time of traditional surgery-and has improved her confidence and mental health.
The Royal Alex now hosts the largest ESG program in Western Canada. Referral by a physician is required.