Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 20, 2025

An Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Designed to Minimize Anastomotic Complications and Optimize Conduit Function
Published on: April 17, 2020
Portomesenteric Vein Thrombosis after Bariatric Surgery: An Online Survey
Francesco Maria Carrano1,2, Sylvia Weiner3, Moustafa Elshafei3
1PhD Program in Applied Medical-Surgical Sciences, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133 Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
Portomesenteric vein thrombosis (PMVT) is a rare post-operative complication of bariatric procedures, occurring in between 0.3% and 1% of cases. A structured questionnaire consisting of 27 items was available online to members of the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) to investigate the occurrence of PMVT. A total of 89 bariatric surgeons from 61 countries participated. Twenty-six (29.21%) reported at least one case of PMVT (46.15% males; 53.84% females). The surgery most associated with PMVT occurrence was sleeve gastrectomy (84.6%), followed by Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) (7.69%), and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) (7.69%). The time gap between surgery and PMVT was 19.28 ± 8.72 days. The predominant symptom was abdominal pain in 96.15% of patients, followed by fever in 26.9%. Complete occlusion of the portal vein was reported in 34.6% of cases, with involvement of the portal system in 69%, extension to the superior mesenteric district in 23%, and extension to the splenic vein in two patients (7.7%). Our survey, which is the largest regarding PMVT to date, revealed a diffuse lack of standardization in the choice, duration, and dosing of prophylaxis regimens as well as treatment modalities, reflecting the literature gap on the topic.
Insights
Portomesenteric vein thrombosis (PMVT) is a rare complication after bariatric surgery, most often linked to sleeve gastrectomy. This largest-to-date survey highlights a significant lack of standardized prevention and treatment protocols for PMVT.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Surgery
- Bariatric Surgery
Background:
- Portomesenteric vein thrombosis (PMVT) is a rare but serious complication following bariatric surgery, with an incidence ranging from 0.3% to 1%.
- Existing literature on PMVT post-bariatric procedures is limited, leading to a lack of standardized management guidelines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence and characteristics of PMVT in patients who have undergone bariatric surgery.
- To identify surgical procedures most frequently associated with PMVT.
- To assess current practices in prophylaxis and treatment of PMVT.
Main Methods:
- A 27-item online questionnaire was distributed to members of the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO).
- The survey collected data on reported PMVT cases, associated surgical procedures, clinical presentation, and management strategies.
- Data were analyzed from 89 bariatric surgeons across 61 countries.
Main Results:
- Twenty-six surgeons (29.21%) reported at least one PMVT case, with sleeve gastrectomy being the most frequently associated procedure (84.6%).
- Abdominal pain was the predominant symptom (96.15%), occurring approximately 19 days post-surgery.
- Significant variability in prophylaxis and treatment modalities was observed, indicating a lack of standardized care.
Conclusions:
- Sleeve gastrectomy is strongly associated with PMVT, necessitating further research into preventative strategies.
- The study underscores a critical gap in standardized protocols for PMVT prophylaxis and treatment in the post-bariatric surgery population.
- Further investigation and consensus development are required to optimize patient outcomes and reduce PMVT incidence.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

