Enterocutaneous fistula: a rare complication of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding

Morbid obesity is a refractory disease with serious co-morbidities. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) has generally been a safe and effective method for achieving sustained weight loss. We report a man who presented after LAGB with persistent wound infection at the access port-site, which failed conservative management. Diagnostic laparoscopy found an enterocutaneous fistula from herniated bowel (in a Richter's hernia) into which the catheter had eroded. The small bowel and fascial defect were repaired. The catheter was then clipped and divided, and the port was removed.