Necrosis of the Nissen-Sleeve Gastrectomy (N-SG) Wrap

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the highest performed bariatric procedure in the world. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is widely debated topics after SG. Nissen-Sleeve gastrectomy (N-SG) technique was reported in 2016 as an alternative solution to this problem. They reported concern about valve ischaemia but did not report any such complication in the beginning of their experience. We would like to share video showing this complication and technique to manage it.

Data was retrospectively analysed.

A 45-year-old female with BMI of 35.5 kg/m had an uneventful Nissen-SG. She had GERD treated with proton pump inhibitor (PPI). The preoperative gastroscopy showed peptic oesophagitis with hiatal hernia. On post-operative day (POD) 1, the patient complained of severe abdominal pain, tachycardia and fever. Inflammatory markers were raised. Diagnostic laparoscopy showed necrosis of the wrap. The wrap was carefully undone and resected with a stapler (with seamguard). Thorough wash with saline was performed. Drain was left near the new staple line. A CT scan with oral contrast 4 days later confirmed absence of a gastric leak. The patient was discharged 8 days after the revision on PPI and antibiotics. Two-years post-operatively, the patient is doing well and her GERD symptoms are controlled with PPI.

Wrap necrosis is a life-threatening complication after N-SG. This case is shared to raise awareness of this complication. This was successfully managed by prompt laparoscopy and wrap resection. Ideally such complications should be referred to experts or centers with high volume of bariatric surgery.