Patient Information Book For Gastric Bypass Surgery - permanente.net

This is also known as prolapse and occurs in approximately 2-15% of people an average of 10mths after
surgery. The exact cause is unknown but it may be related to significant vomiting after surgery. Encasing
the band in a sleeve of stomach as shown in the diagram page 1, helps reduce the occurrence of prolapse.
Symptoms typically include new onset reflux and difficulty swallowing foods you previously tolerated.
Pain is rare. The diagnosis is confirmed with an x-ray known as a barium swallow. Surgery is necessary to
remove the band.
Erosion
Band erosions into the stomach occur in up to 5% of patients. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
such as Motrin may increase his risk. Erosion generally present with failure of weight loss despite
adjustments and good lifestyle habits. Endoscopy confirms the diagnosis and surgical correction is
warranted.
Dilatation of the Esophagus
Rapid and aggressive adjustments will lead to over-tightening and subsequent difficulty swallowing with
possible dilatation of the esophagus. His can occur in up to 10% of patients. This is more likely to occur
with band adjustments performed on the basis of radiological stoma size under fluoroscopy rather than on
subjective patient satiety. Symptoms may include heartburn, lack of weight loss and loss of satiety.
Tubing and Port Complications
These include tubing breaks, leaks, kinks and disconnections. Port site infections and port site pain can also
occur. Generally these are correctable with laproscopic surgery. Avoiding heavy exertion for 6 wks after
surgery will allow adequate healing and fixation of the access port to the stomach muscle sheath.