Background: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has been introduced as a surgical option in bariatric surgery. Leaks after bariatric operations are usually life-threatening complications. However, its incidence after LSG is not well evaluated.
Objectives: Report leaks with sleeve gastrectomy over a 41-month to analyze the clinical course and management of those patients.
Patients and Methods: Between January, 2013 and May, 2016, (41 months) 280 morbidly obese patients have undergone laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy at New Damietta University Hospital. Among the above patients, 8 patients (2.85%) were complicated with a staple line leak. All leaks occurred at the upper angle of staple line. Management of staple line leak was done with conservative measures for one patient, laparoscopic exploration for five patients (one of them was re-explored with laparotomy after ten days for re-leak), and endoscopic application of stent for two patients.
Results: The study included five women and three men. The patients were between 20 and 50 years of age (mean age 34 years). The BMI of these patients ranged from 38 to 48 kg\m2 (mean BMI 43.6 kg\m2). Two patients (25%) had early and six patients (75%) had late leaks. Two patients were managed with laparoscopic exploration and suturing of the leak site. Stent was applied endoscopically for two patients. Three patients were managed with exploratory laparotomy. Percutaneous drainage with conservative measures was enough for one patient.
Conclusion: The keystone in successful management of staple line leak is early diagnosis and rapid intervention. Surgical technique is of significant importance to successful surgical outcome. Gentle handling of tissues, optimal staple-line formation, and ensuring adequate hemostasis without causing tissue damage from electro-cautery are important. Selection of the proper method of management depends on timing of diagnosis, facilities and surgeon experience.