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Mediastinalemphysema after laparoscopic gastric banding
M Lanthaler1, H Weiss, E Weissenboeck
1Department of General Surgery, University Hospital of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
Surgical Endoscopy
|January 25, 2003
Summary
A rare case of pneumomediastinum occurred 17 months after laparoscopic gastric banding. This complication, potentially linked to vomiting-induced esophageal tear, highlights the need for vigilance in bariatric surgery patients.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Bariatric Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Laparoscopic gastric banding is a common bariatric procedure.
- Complications can arise months or years after surgery.
- Pneumomediastinum is a rare but serious complication.
Observation:
- A 28-year-old patient developed pneumomediastinum 17 months post-gastric banding.
- Symptoms included dysphagia, chest pain, vomiting, and hematemesis.
- Endoscopy ruled out band migration.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with mediastinal emphysema.
- Conservative treatment was initiated.
- The etiology was suspected to be an esophageal tear secondary to vomiting.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering esophageal injury in patients with delayed symptoms post-gastric banding.
- Further investigation into the link between vomiting and esophageal perforation in this context is warranted.
- Awareness of rare complications is crucial for managing bariatric surgery patients.