Peroral endoscopic anastomotic reduction improves intractable dumping syndrome in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients.

BACKGROUND: Dumping syndrome is a well-described consequence of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Although the condition can benefit some patients with morbid obesity, a subset will develop intractable dumping syndrome characterized by symptomatic episodes with most meals. We describe the first series of patients successfully treated endoscopically for intractable dumping syndrome. METHODS: Endoscopic gastrojejunal anastomotic reduction was performed in patients with intractable dumping syndrome after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass using a combination of argon plasma coagulation, endoscopic suturing, and fibrin glue. The technical feasibility of endoscopic anastomotic reduction and the clinical improvement in dumping symptoms were assessed by clinical follow-up. RESULTS: Endoscopic anastomotic reduction was technically successful in 6 consecutive patients with a dilated gastrojejunal anastomosis and intractable dumping syndrome. One patient reported hematemesis 2 days after the procedure that was treated endoscopically. No other significant complications occurred. Complete and persistent resolution of the dumping symptoms was achieved in all patients, with a median follow-up of 636 days. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic anastomotic reduction appears technically feasible and safe and might be a minimally invasive treatment option for patients who experience intractable dumping symptoms after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Additional studies are needed to determine the long-term efficacy of this procedure.