Complications for Sleeve

Understanding Complications from Gastric Sleeve Surgery

 

Gastric sleeve surgery is generally safe and effective for most patients, but like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks of complications. Understanding these potential complications can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare and prepare for a successful recovery.

 

Common Complications

While complications from gastric sleeve surgery are relatively rare, they can occur. Some of the most common complications include:

 

·         Leaks: A leak along the staple line of the stomach is one of the most serious complications of gastric sleeve surgery. This occurs in approximately 1-3% of cases and can lead to infection, abscesses, and other serious health issues .

·         Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can occur in about 1-2% of patients and may require additional medical intervention to control .

·         Infection: Infections at the surgical site or within the abdomen occur in around 1-3% of cases and may require antibiotics or further treatment .

·         Blood clots: Blood clots can form in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism), with a risk of about 1-2% .

·         Strictures: Narrowing of the stomach opening (stricture) can occur in roughly 1-2% of patients, making it difficult to eat or causing vomiting .

 

 

Less Common Complications

In addition to the common complications mentioned above, there are also less common but potentially serious complications that can arise from gastric sleeve surgery. These include:

 

·         Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):Some patients may experience worsening or new onset of GERD symptoms after surgery, with an estimated risk of 5-20% .

·         Nutritional Deficiencies: Poor absorption of nutrients may occur, leading to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and vitamin B12. The risk of significant deficiencies can vary but is generally low with proper supplementation and follow-up .

·         Gallstones: Rapid weight loss after surgery can increase the risk of developing gallstones, affecting about 10-15% of patients, which may require further treatment .

Reducing the Risk of Complications

While complications from gastric sleeve surgery are rare, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

 

·         Choose an experienced surgeon who specialises in bariatric surgery.

·         Follow your surgeon's pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully.

·         Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare team.

·         Report any unusual symptoms or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.

Conclusion

While complications from gastric sleeve surgery are possible, they are relatively rare, and most patients experience successful outcomes. By understanding the potential risks and taking proactive steps to minimise them, you can increase your chances of a smooth recovery and long-term success. Remember to check these statistics and any updates with your consultant for the most accurate and current information.

 

References:

1- GGagner, M. et al. "Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Review of 1,000 Cases." Surgical Endoscopy, 2009.

2- Aurora, A. R. et al. "Surgical management of leaks after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy." Surgical Obesity and Related Diseases, 2012.

3- Deitel, M. et al. "Complications of an antiobesity procedure: The laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy." Obesity Surgery, 2008.

4- Gumbs, A. A. et al. "Gastric leak after sleeve gastrectomy: A review of its management." Obesity Surgery, 2007.

5- Geerts, W. H. et al. "Prevention of venous thromboembolism: The Seventh ACCP Conference on Antithrombotic and Thrombolytic Therapy." Chest, 2004.

6- Rosenthal, R. J. et al. "International Sleeve Gastrectomy Expert Panel Consensus   Statement: best practice guidelines based on experience of >12,000 cases." Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases, 2012.

7- Daes, J. et al. "Improving treatment outcomes with a standardized sleeve gastrectomy technique: a 3-year study of over 500 cases." Obesity Surgery, 2012.

8- Mechanick, J. I. et al. "Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Perioperative Nutritional, Metabolic, and Nonsurgical Support of the Bariatric Surgery Patient—2013 Update." Obesity, 2013

9- Shiffman, M. L. "The pathophysiology and treatment of gallstones." Gastroenterology Clinics of North America, 1991.