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Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) remains one of the key bariatric procedures worldwide. In addition to bleeding and anastomotic leak, there are rarely occurring complications such as obstruction at the jejuno-jejunostomy in the early postoperative phase. A 51-year-old lady (weight 122 kg; BMI 46 kg/m2; with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension) underwent RYGB in our tertiary referral centre 3 days prior to admission. She originally recovered well from the uneventful operation, but began vomiting on day 3. At this point, she complained of no other symptoms. An urgent CT scan identified a gastric remnant dilatation, and an obstructed jejuno-jejunostomy. An urgent laparoscopic exploration was performed, which identified obstruction at this level. Within our video-presentation, detailed technical steps are described. First, gastric remnant decompression was performed by inserting a tube gastrostomy. Secondly, the obstruction was identified. Consequently, a new jejuno-jejunostomy was created, proximal to the original anastomosis, using a linear stapler, and direct suture closure of the enterotomy defects. After thorough washout, drains were placed in the pelvis and alongside the jejuno-jejunostomy. The patient was discharged home after a 2-week hospital stay which included 5 days of invasive ventilation on the ITU. A high-level of suspicion is required to suspect, diagnose and treat post-RYGB complications. A bariatric on-call rota with appropriately trained personnel is essential.

Mechanical gastro-intestinal anastomosis using stapler is a critical step in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). To date the effect of the direction of staples on anastomotic leak has not been investigated. The study aim was to investigate the impact of the direction of staples on the integrity of the gastro-jejunal anastomosis. Eight gastro-jejunostomy (GJ) models were performed using porcine stomach and small intestine. Specimens were divided into group A where the cartridge was in the gastric lumen with the anvil in the jejunal lumen and vice versa in group B. Enterotomy was closed and gastric and jejunal ends were stapled off. Burst pressure (BP) was measured by infusion of methylene blue saline into the GJ model until leak occurred. Site of leak, BP, and total volume (TV) infused were recorded. Compliance (C) was calculated from the equation ΔTV/ΔBP. The BP was greater in group A compared to group B (18 mmHg (range 15–25) versus 11 mmHg (range 8–15); p = 0.045) despite similar TV between the groups 60.00 mL (range 55.00–65.00) versus 51.25 mL (range 40.00–60.00); p = 0.11). The compliance did not significantly differ between groups A and B (6.38 mL/mmHg (range 4.34–8.59) versus 5.61 mL/mmHg (range 3.93–7.21); p = 0.48). BP recorded when the stapler cartridge was introduced in the gastric lumen was higher than when it was introduced from the jejunal lumen. The lack of difference in compliance between groups suggests that the difference in BP was due to the difference in the direction of staples.

INTRODUCTION Ischemia of the tip of the alimentary limb involving the gastrojejunostomy (GJ) is an unusual complication during Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Revision of the GJ may be needed to manage this complication. OBJECTIVES We present a case of inadvertent perforation of the jejunum by a gastric calibration tube, which was recognized on the table and appropriate measures are then taken. Repair of this enterotomy however then led to ischemia of the tip of alimentary limb extending to a portion of the GJ anastomosis. We present its subsequent management. METHODS Our patient is a morbidly obese female patient with a BMI value of 44.6 kg/msq undergoing RYGB. We performed an antecolic, antegastric linear-stapled gastrojejunostomy of 2.5 cm. After hand-sewn closure of the common enterotomy, we tried passing a 38-F Bougie through the anastomosis into the Roux limb. During this maneuver, the Bougie inadvertently perforated the Roux limb at the mesenteric border. Following the repair of this jejunal rent, the distal part of the Roux limb became dusky and involved a portion of the gastrojejunal anastomosis. The gastrojejunostomy was therefore completely revised. Intraoperatively, methylene blue dye test was done which showed no leak. RESULTS Post-operative gastrografin study revealed no leak and liquids were started on POD1. CONCLUSION Inadvertent injury by a Bougie is a rare but known complication in laparoscopic RYGB. Intraoperative recognition of the complication is essential to prompt the necessary repair. Revision of the gastrojejunostomy is necessary if the Roux limb or the anastomosis itself is ischemic and can be accomplished with good results.

The present video shows the laparoscopic management of an acute small bowel obstruction (ASBO) after a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGBP), due to the development of an intraluminal hemobezoar involving the jejuno-jejunostomy (j-j). On the first postoperative day (POD), the patient presented persistent abdominal pain, sense of fullness, nausea, and vomiting with traces of blood. The abdominal tube drained a small amount of serous fluid, while blood tests revealed a mild leukocytosis and a slight decrease of the hemoglobin. A CT scan showed the dilation of the excluded stomach, duodenum, and both the alimentary and biliopancreatic limbs. The transition point was located in the common limb, just beyond the j-j, which was dilated by a fluid collection with the radiological aspect of a blood clot. The patient underwent an emergency laparoscopy which confirmed the preoperative radiological findings. An enterotomy was performed at the biliopancreatic stump, and the blood clot was pulled out by suction. The enterotomy was then closed by means of a linear stapler. Postoperative course was uneventful, except for the development of low-grade pneumonia. The patient was discharged on POD 8. ASBO is a worrisome postoperative complication of RYGBP. Although rare, the development of intraluminal hemobezoar should always be considered as a possible cause of ASBO. Laparoscopic management is feasible and effective and does not necessarily entail the complete revision of the j-j.

In this study, we assessed feasibility, safety, and time efficiency of laparoscopic running enterotomy closure for linear stapled Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) using unidirectional barbed sutures (Stratafix™ 2/0- Ethicon). Two hundred patients undergoing laparoscopic RYGB were prospectively randomized regarding running enterotomy closure of the linear stapled gastrojejunal (GJA) and jejunojejunal anastomosis (JJA). Two groups were created: V-group (Vicryl® 2/0—Ethicon) and S-group (Stratafix™ 2/0—Ethicon). Time spent on closing the enterotomies was measured from first needle in until knot and cut (V-group) or last stitch and cut (S-group). If needed, a nonabsorbable “correction” (“c”; in order to close a small hiatus at the anastomosis) or hemostatic (“h”) stitch was made (using a single Prolene® 2/0—Ethicon). Average total procedure time was similar (S-group 1:01:22, V-group 1:00:44, P = 0.340). Closure of the enterotomy (GJA) was significantly shorter in the S-group (07:41 min versus 08:13 min in the V-group, P = 0.005). Extra stitches (GJA) were performed in 33 patients (16.5%): 3 (h) and 20 (c) in the V-group and 1 (h) and 9 (c) in the S-group. Four patients in the V-group suffered from postoperative intraluminal bleeding (3 self-limiting, 1 underwent endoscopic clipping). In the S-group, 1 patient suffered from leakage at the vertical transected staple line of the stomach. The use of unidirectional barbed sutures for running enterotomy closure after linear stapled RYGB is feasible and safe. Significant time benefit was seen regarding the closure of the GJA. Fewer additional stitches were necessary and postoperative intraluminal bleeding was less encountered.

Background Gastrojejunostomy revision after gastric bypass surgery is a challenging procedure that requires advanced skills. The air-leak test was performed to identify gastrojejunostomy leaks. Omental patch seal technique is a well-known treatment of perforated gastrojejunostomy ulcers (Surg Obes Relat Dis 4:423-8, 2012; Surg Endosc 2:384-9, 2013; Surg Endosc 11:2110, 2007). Methods We present a case of a 40-year-old female, who underwent laparoscopic gastric bypass 6 years prior and subsequently developed marginal ulcer, resulting in chronic gastrojejunostomy stricture. She underwent multiple endoscopic dilations until it became refractory. She was taken for a gastrojejunostomy revision. After dissection of dense adhesion, the gastric pouch was identified. The Roux limb was identified as retrocolic and retrogastric. The pouch was divided just below the left gastric pedicle. Endoscope air insufflation was showed no leak of the new pouch. The Roux limb was freed and gastrojejunal anastomosis was performed with a posterior lair, linear stapler, and two layers of running 2-0 absorbable sutures for common enterotomy. The leak test demonstrated air bubbles which were at the anastomosis lateral aspect. A 2-0 non-absorbable suture was placed repeatedly but the leak remained positive. Fibrin glue was placed over the gastrojejunostomy. A tongue of omentum was pulled posteriorly to the pouch and sewed to itself to encircle the gastrojejunostomy. The leak test was not repeated since it would not have changed our management at this point. A remnant gastrostomy tube was placed. Two suction drains were placed. Upper endoscopy, at the end of the case, demonstrated a patulous gastrojejunostomy. Results The patient's post-operative course was uneventful. Enteric feeding was initiated via the remnant gastrostomy. Upper GI fluoroscopy was performed on POD 5 and was negative for leak or stricture. She was discharged on POD 7. At 6-month follow-up, she was doing excellent, maintaining her weight without symptoms. Conclusions Gastrojejunostomy revision is a complex procedure that requires an advanced bariatric surgery skills and experience. Omental patch can be used in cases where friable tissue anastomosis leaks as a sealant along with a protective feeding gastrostomy.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic running enterotomy closure for linear stapled Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) may be enhanced by using unidirectional barbed sutures (Stratafix™ 2/0, Ethicon) as it eliminates the need for knot tying and assistance from a third hand. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this paper is to present our technique using unidirectional barbed sutures (Stratafix™ 2/0, Ethicon). METHODS: After stapling the gastrojejunostomy, we start the closure of the residual enterotomy unidirectional from left to right (single, full-thickness layer) which is cut without a knot. For the jejunojejunostomy, the residual enterotomy is closed perpendicular from top to bottom in order to avoid iatrogenic stricture formation (single, full-thickness layer). No backstitches are performed. CONCLUSIONS: We feel strongly that this technique might enhance running enterotomy closure for linear stapled RYGB.

The ideal management of the super-super obese patient (SSO) is unclear and controversy exists as to the choice of procedure as well as the risk for increased morbidity and mortality. I present my experience of laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass (LMGB) in 16 SSO patients with early follow-up results. Review of a prospectively maintained database was performed. All the patients underwent LMGB by a single surgeon (CP). Data collected included demographics, operative time, length of stay, complications, and weight loss. Follow-up data was obtained at office visits in addition to periodic telephone interviews and e-mails. All office follow-up and review of correspondence from Primary Care Physicians (PCP) was managed by the operating surgeon. Sixteen patients were identified as being SSO and comprise the study group. There were 14 women and two men. Average age was 40 years (27–61). Average weight and BMI were 166 (150–193) and 62.4 (60–73), respectively. All procedures were performed laparoscopically by a single surgeon with no conversion to open. Average operative time was 78 min (41–147 min) and hospital stay was 1.2 days. Intraoperative complications included a liver laceration in one patient and an enterotomy in another. Both were managed laparoscopically. No patients required readmission to the hospital, and there were no major complications or deaths. Weight loss showed a consistent increase over the follow-up period with 2 year results of 72 KG lost or 65% EWL. Laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass (MGB) is a technically simple and safe procedure in SSO patients. LMGB has the advantages of being a single stage procedure, being easily reversible and revisable in a laparoscopic procedure and does not sacrifice portions of the stomach or implant foreign materials. Weight loss appears favorable in the short term; however, information regarding long-term weight loss, durability, and safety profile in this population will require a greater number of patients and longer follow up.

A 49-year-old female (weight 81 kg, height 161 cm, BMI 31.2) presented at the emergency department complaining of 2-day history of worsening cramp-like abdominal pain and vomiting. She had not passed stools or flatus in the last 36 h and reported to have had an intra-gastric balloon (BioEnterics Intra-gastric Balloon, Allergan. Inc, Irvine, Calif) inserted 9 months earlier to treat grade I obesity. The balloon was introduced during an upper endoscopy at another institution in Latin America, and she denied having any follow-up since moving to Europe. While in the E.R., an abdominal x-ray and abdominal triple contrast CT scan (with oral water-soluble contrast) showed a complete small-bowel obstruction caused by the distal migration of a foreign body. This was consistent with the intra-gastric balloon impacted in the distal jejunum. Free fluid was also evident. Emergency surgery was mandatory, and a laparoscopic approach was chosen. After identification of the cecum and ileocecal valve, the small intestine was carefully inspected starting from the distal ileum by “run-the-bowel”, proximally. An evident transition point between collapsed and distended bowel loops was identified, and a clear bulging of the bowel wall caused by the deflated and impacted balloon was observed at the site. A transverse enterotomy 3.5 cm in length was performed with laparoscopic scissors, distally to the obstruction site. The balloon was gently pulled out, taking care not to tear or damage the bowel and once removed was placed within an endobag. Laparoscopic enterorrhaphy was performed with double-layer intra-corporeal suture. The postoperative course was uneventful.

Gastrojejunostomy (GJ) stricture is a common complication after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) for morbid obesity, and the optimal anastomotic technique remains uncertain. The objective of this study was to use cumulative summation (CUSUM) analysis to compare rates of gastrojejunostomy strictures after linear stapling with longitudinal versus transverse enterotomy closure in gastric bypass patients. Charts of all consecutive patients with at least 60 days of post-operative follow-up after laparoscopic RYGB (LRYGB) at our tertiary care institution from Nov 2009 to Dec, 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Gastrojejunostomy stricture was diagnosed by history and upper endoscopy. CUSUM method of quality control analysis was used to determine sequential improvement in stricture rates with the change in technique. A total of 197 patients were included (97 longitudinal closure, median age 44 (21–67), median BMI 47 (35–80), 85.8 % female). Gastrojejunostomy strictures occurred in 16 % of longitudinal and 0 % of transverse patients (p =

A temporary non-surgical approach for treatment of obesity is the gastric balloon that serves as an alternative procedure for many patients with frustrated diet attempts. Deflation and displacement of the balloon resulting in acute intestinal obstruction and subsequent surgical intervention is a rare complication. A BioEnterics Intragastric Balloon was endoscopically implanted in a 35-year-old female with a body mass index (BMI) of 28 kg/m 2 . The procedure succeeded without complications, and weight loss was effective during the first 6 months. One year after balloon implantation, the patient presented with abdominal cramps and vomiting due to ileal obstruction. Since endoscopic efforts to remove the deflated and displaced balloon failed, emergency laparotomy and enterotomy were necessary. Vascularization of the dilated small bowel was compromised, but recovered after decompression. Patients' postoperative course was uneventful. The gastric balloon model can be associated with major complications and should be used critically. Removal of the balloon should be assured not later than 6 months when weight loss decreases.

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) has gained popularity for treatment of morbid obesity worldwide. With the widespread use of LAGB, an increasing number of medical specialists are dealing with the potentially life-threatening complications of this procedure. More than 6,000 LABGs were performed by our surgeons during the past 11 years, during which various complications of LAGB were observed, including band slippage, erosion, gastric pouch dilatation, port infection, and disconnection. Complicated cases requiring emergency surgical intervention were collected. We present and discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities of these complications. Fourteen cases were identified: six with acute band slippage, two with small bowel obstruction, and one each with band slippage and fetal intrauterine growth restriction during the 36th week of pregnancy, perforated gastric ulcer, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, connecting tube penetration into a stomach ulcer, connecting tube penetration into the colon, and port disconnection. All patients had gastrointestinal symptoms at admission. Band reposition was performed in four cases; eight patients required band removal for band contamination. The band was open and still in place in one case. Open and laparoscopic gastric resections for necrotic stomach were performed in two cases. Suture of perforated gastric ulcer was combined with cesarean section. Connection of disconnected port and suture of colonic and gastric penetrations and perforation of fundus were completed laparoscopically. Small bowel resection and enterotomy required an additional minimal laparotomic incision. No mortality was observed in our series. Four patients elected to have the LAGB reinserted at a later time. The increasing number of bariatric procedures has resulted in emergency physicians' knowledge of serious complications of LAGB that require urgent surgical intervention. Treatment algorithms require early diagnosis and a surgical approach to solving these conditions.

We report a rare case of acute early postoperative small bowel obstruction after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass due to an intraluminal blood clot at the site of the jejuno-jejunostomy. Patient was treated successfully with enterotomy and removal of the clot. A review of literature showed three similar publications.

Therapeutic biliary endoscopy after biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) for morbid obesity is not possible through the anatomical route. In the case of a long excluded afferent limb, the possibility to reach endoscopically the papilla through a surgical gastrostomy or jejunostomy has been reported. A case of laparoscopy-assisted ERCP performed 4 years after laparoscopic BPD with distal gastrectomy, is reported. Access to the papilla was obtained laparoscopically by enterotomy, insertion of a trocar into a jejunal loop 40 cm distal to the ligament of Treitz and passage of the duodenoscope through the trocar to the papilla. A guidewire was laparoscopically advanced into the cystic duct, and bile duct cannulation was achieved using the rendez-vous technique; endoscopic sphincterotomy and extraction of stones were successful. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed and the enterotomy was sutured. The clinical course was uneventful.