While there are definitely many types of complications associated with gastric bypass surgery, overall it is quite a safe procedure. The previous posts have mentioned those complications. However, it is important to note that complications are rare, and most of them are not life-threatening. As the surgeon explains in this video, most gastric bypass complications are mild enough that the patient can be sent home one day after surgery. If complications do arise, and they are less likely to arise as time goes on, then the patient can go back to the hospital to be examined and treated. The likelihood of the complication being life-threatening is extremely low.
A recent post explained the gastric bypass complication called "narrowing of the anastomosis." Today’s post is focused on anastomotic leakage.
As you may recall (or may need to check that other post) "anastamosis" refers to the surgical connection between the stomach and intestines or bowel. When the surgeon performs the surgery he uses sutures and staples to make that connection, and he will do his best to insure that the connection is tight and sealed. Then, it is up to the patient’s body to heal in such a way that there are no leaks.
However, sometimes the body doesn’t do exactly what it is expected to do. If the anastamosis doesn’t heal properly, then there might be some leaks. That means the fluid from the intestines can leak out and cause an infection or an abcess.
To treat anastamotic leakage, the doctor will generally prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection, and with time, leak will heal itself to form a secure seal between the stomach and bowel. If that doesn’t work, additional surgery may be necessary.
It is crucial to recognize the symptoms of an anastamotic leak as it is one of the more dangerous complications of gastric bypass surgery. The symptons include:
- severe chest pain
- shortness of breath
- abdominal pain
- heart palpitations, and
- anxiety.
After having gastric bypass surgery, it is vital that the patient be aware of the various symptoms of each complication to make sure that if any of the symptoms comes up, he can call his doctor immediately to treat the problem.