Conversion of AspireAssist System® to Sleeve Gastrectomy: Technical Video Description

The AspireAssist System® (Aspire Bariatrics, Inc. King of Prussia, PA) is a new endoscopic procedure used to treat obese patients. The aim of this dedicated video is to present a case that required revision surgery due to failure of the AspireAssist System®, and to show how the cannula was removed from the abdomen, and why sleeve gastrectomy (SG) was a good option for revisional surgery in that patient. We aim to discuss technical aspects.

A 43-year-old female patient who underwent a placement in 2016. Her initial BMI (body mass index) was 38 kg/m², with a follow-up period of 26 months. A revisional surgery was performed including dissection of the previous gastric fistula and adhesiolysis from the previous AspireAssist System® placement. A complete dissection of the gastrostomy, including removal of all the system, was done. A decision was made, once the incisura angularis and the placement of a 40 Fch bougie showed that the transection could be performed. SG was done. Patients showed an uneventful postoperative course and 4 months follow-up with 45% EWL.

In case of having the device in place, the surgeon must be aware to remove intraoperatively or endoscopically, the device. Surgeons should consider endoscopic removal of the AspireAssist System® before conversion to another procedure (SG or GBP) at least 6 months of the removal. Removal of the AspireAssist System® should be performed endoscopically but direct conversion to another bariatric procedure can be considered, either to SG or GBP depending on the technical intraoperative aspects.