Management of Acute Sleeve Gastrectomy Leaks by Conversion to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: a Small Case Series

Abstract

Management of early sleeve gastrectomy leak remains challenging. The recommended approach is endoscopic stenting and abdominal drainage. Conversion to a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a common procedure used for late fistulas with distal obstruction. Here, we have presented three cases of early staple line leaks treated by conversion to RYGB. These patients had uncontrolled abdominal infections despite intensive medical treatments, and surgery was elected for abdominal drainage as well as to control the source of sepsis. All the patients were discharged without problems, and successful weight loss processes continued. Conversion to RYGB of a sleeve gastrectomy leak in an acute setting can be a feasible method in the case of inevitable surgical drainage for abdominal sepsis.