Hemorrhagic and thromboembolic complications after bariatric surgery in patients receiving chronic anticoagulation therapy.

BACKGROUND: Perioperative management of bariatric surgical patients receiving chronic anticoagulation requires an understanding of potential hemorrhagic and thromboembolic risks. The aim of this study is to evaluate hemorrhagic and thromboembolic complications in morbidly obese patients who are on oral anticoagulation treatment and subsequently undergo laparoscopic bariatric surgery. METHODS: The medical records of all laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) patients from June 2001 to March 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. In addition, data of patients who received chronic anticoagulation therapy with Coumadin and underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was analyzed. Clinical parameters included length of hospitalization, hemorrhagic complications, thromboembolic complications, conversion rate, reoperation, and blood transfusion. RESULTS: During the study period, 1,700 consecutive patients underwent bariatric surgery for the treatment of morbid obesity. Of these, 21 patients were treated with chronic oral anticoagulation; 3 of the 21 (14%) had hemorrhagic complications: one patient had intraluminal hemorrhage and two patients had intraabdominal hemorrhage. Two patients required blood transfusion, and one patient underwent surgical reintervention. None of the 21 laparoscopic operations were converted to open procedures. There were no postoperative mortalities, and there were no thromboembolic events in this series. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic bariatric surgery can be performed relatively safely in morbidly obese patients who are treated with chronic oral anticoagulation. Even in the presence of bleeding, patients can be successfully treated without the need for reoperation.

Laparoscopic placement of a gastric stimulator for the treatment of gastroparesis: a pilot study technique and results.

AIM: To evaluate the safety and outcomes of laparoscopic placement of a gastric stimulator for patients with gastroparesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data of all patients who underwent laparoscopic placement of a gastric stimulator between 2003 and 2005 was retrospectively reviewed. Data included; demographics, perioperative course, and outcomes. A telephone follow-up questionnaire was conducted for all patients. Patient's satisfaction of their life after the procedure was evaluated on a scale from 0 to 10. RESULTS: Seven patients underwent the procedure. There were no conversions, no perioperative complications; all patients were discharged on the first postoperative day. There were no postoperative complications or mortality. Only 5 patients were available for a telephone interview. All patients indicated reduction of symptoms, 4 patients decreased or discontinued their drug therapy. Four patients indicated that they were tolerating regular diet. Three patients indicated an improvement in their general life satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: Gastric electrical stimulator may improve gastrointestinal symptoms, reduce the use of drug therapy, and offer subsequent improvement in patients' general life satisfaction. This procedure is relatively safe for patients with refractory gastroparesis. Further studies are required to confirm these results.

Esophagogastro-Roux-en-Y jejunostomy: a surgical option in recurrent achalasia? Case report and review of the literature.

Recurrent obstructive symptoms after cardiomyotomy for achalasia occur in approximately 10 per cent to 15 per cent of patients, but only some require reoperation. Reoperative procedures for achalasia vary, and in general, have less success in relieving symptoms than the initial procedure. We present the case of a 37-year-old male with a 15-year history of recurrent achalasia, with symptoms of heartburn and progressive dysphagia after meals. He underwent several esophageal dilatations, botox injections, and two transthoracic Heller myotomies before the transabdominal esophagogastro-Roux-en-Y jejunostomy was performed. This case represents another surgical option for management of the challenging problem of recurrent achalasia.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as treatment for morbid obesity: technique and short-term outcome.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) are the most commonly performed surgical procedures for weight reduction in the United States. Currently, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is being explored. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and short-term efficacy of LSG as a treatment option for weight reduction. METHODS: Data of all patients who underwent LSG for treatment of morbid obesity between November 2004 and March 2006 and completed the 3- and 6-month follow-up visits at the time of the study, were retrospectively reviewed. Data collected included demographics, operative time, length of stay, postoperative complications, and degree of weight reduction. RESULTS: Of the 62 patients who underwent LSG performed by two surgeons, the data of 30 patients (7 males and 23 females) were further analyzed. Mean preoperative BMI was 41.4 (33-59) kg/m(2). Mean operative time was 80 min (range 65-130). Mean hospital stay was 3.2 days (range 2 to 25). Mean weight loss at 3 and 6 months following the procedure was 22.7 kg and 30.5 kg respectively, and mean % excess weight loss (EWL) was 40.7 and 52.8, respectively. Three patients were considered to have mild complications, and one patient had a major complication that necessitated surgical intervention. There was no mortality. CONCLUSIONS: In the short-term, LSG is a safe and effective treatment option.