Vitamin E Deficiency Secondary to Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Case Report

Obesity is a prevailing health concern, with bariatric surgery being a common treatment option despite the potential nutritional risks and poorly understood postoperative physiological changes, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. Neurological complications following bariatric surgery, often secondary to micronutrient deficiencies like vitamin B12, thiamine, and copper deficiencies, have been increasingly reported. This report presents a case of a 20-year-old female patient who developed neurological deficits, specifically bilateral lower limb weakness, following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Investigations revealed deficiencies in vitamin E, D, and folic acid. Despite the rarity of vitamin E deficiency post-sleeve gastrectomy, this deficiency led to bilateral axonal sciatic mononeuropathies, which improved with appropriate supplementation and supportive care. This case highlights the importance of regular nutritional monitoring and supplementation following bariatric surgery to prevent rare yet serious complications such as vitamin deficiencies leading to neurological disorders. Routine follow-ups and personalized care are essential for mitigating the risks of post-surgical deficiencies and improving patient outcomes.