Endoscopic versus Surgical Intervention for Jejunal Bezoar Formation

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Gastroenterology

Background:

• Bezoar formation can lead to small bowel obstruction, a condition often requiring surgical intervention.
• Patients with a history of abdominal or bariatric surgery are at higher risk for bezoar development.

Observation:

• A case of obstructive jejunal phytobezoar was identified in a patient with a history of prior surgery.
• The phytobezoar caused significant small bowel obstruction, necessitating intervention.

Findings:

• The patient's obstructive jejunal phytobezoar was successfully managed and relieved using an endoscopic approach.
• This endoscopic treatment obviated the need for surgical exploration and intervention.

Implications:

• Endoscopic management presents a viable, less invasive alternative to surgery for select cases of intestinal bezoars.
• This approach may improve patient outcomes and reduce the morbidity associated with surgical treatment of bezoar-induced obstructions.