Introduction:
With the rising burden of obesity, bariatric surgery is becoming more common as a treatment option. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is considered safe and effective and is a popular procedure in Australia. However there are recognised complications to be aware of such as band erosion which can lead to infection and abscess formation.
Presentation of case:
A 59-year-old caucasian female presented with fevers, rigors and feeling generally unwell. She was previously fit and well with her only past medical history being LAGB 14 years prior. Clinically the patient was in septic shock and required intensive care admission for inotropic support. On investigations the CRP was 227 and abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed a splenic abscess. Follow up upper gastrointestinal endoscopy diagnosed an eroded gastric band in the stomach. The patient proceeded to laparoscopy, a gastrotomy was performed and the band was removed. The splenic abscess was concurrently drained and the patient treated with an extended course of intravenous and oral antibiotics.
Discussion:
Band erosion is a rare but serious complications of LAGB surgery along with band slippage, pouch dilatation and abscess formation. Patients are often asymptomatic making early diagnosis difficult. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is used to locate the band and recommended treatment is band removal via laparoscopy or laparotomy.
Conclusion:
Band erosion should be suspected in patients with a history of LAGB presenting with nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain or fevers. This case also highlights the importance of appropriate patient follow up post operatively and counselling of operative risks and long-term complications.