Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 22, 2025
Laparoscopic Repair of Para-Esophageal Hernia Using Absorbable Biosynthetic Mesh
Published on: September 11, 2021
Closed loop small bowel obstruction due to herniation through silastic ring after bariatric surgery
Rama Chidambaram1,2, Sharin Pradhan2
1Medical Education Unit, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia rama_cc@hotmail.com.
Abstract:
Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for obesity and obesity-related complications. Weight regain after surgery plagues all methods of bariatric procedures including the minigastric bypass. The use of a 'silastic ring' around the gastric pouch has been shown to reduce weight regain. We present here a very rare complication of silastic ring use, in which a loop of small bowel had herniated through the ring and produced a closed loop small bowel obstruction. The patient was successfully treated with an emergency laparotomy to resect the silastic ring and release the herniated bowel. This case highlights the hernia risk that silastic rings pose and cautions careful consideration before their use.
Insights
Silastic rings aid bariatric surgery weight control but can cause rare bowel obstruction. This case highlights the hernia risk, advising caution with silastic ring use in gastric bypass procedures.
Area of Science:
- Bariatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Bariatric surgery effectively treats obesity and related conditions.
- Weight regain is a common issue after various bariatric procedures, including minigastric bypass.
- Silastic rings are used to mitigate weight regain by constricting the gastric pouch.
Observation:
- A rare complication involving a silastic ring was observed.
- A loop of small bowel herniated through the silastic ring.
- This herniation resulted in a closed-loop small bowel obstruction.
Findings:
- The patient required emergency laparotomy for treatment.
- The silastic ring was resected, and the herniated bowel was released.
- Surgical intervention successfully resolved the obstruction.
Implications:
- Silastic rings, while beneficial for weight management, carry a significant risk of hernia formation.
- This case underscores the importance of careful consideration regarding the use of silastic rings in bariatric surgery.
- Further research may be needed to explore safer alternatives or improved techniques to mitigate this complication.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
01:26Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...