Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma After Adjustable Gastric Banding

Abstract

The prevalence of morbid obesity has been increasing worldwide. Therefore, multiple laparoscopic adjustable gastric bandings (LAGBs) have been placed in Belgium in the nineties. The procedure was considered as minimal invasive with low morbidity rates. However, some publication cases suggest a possible association between LAGB and the onset of an esophageal cancer. We present a case of a 49-year-old female who consulted for dysphagia, epigastric pain, and anorexia 17 years after LAGB. An esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was diagnosed in the distal esophagus, close to the lap band. The diagnostic value of the performed contrast swallow study seemed limited. We suggest that a routinely gastroscopic evaluation in the long-term follow-up after LAGB should be strived for in patients presenting with late-onset dysphagia.