Intussusception after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Abstract

Background: Jejuno-jejunal (J-J) intussusception is a rare complication after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Prompt diagnosis is critical as it may lead to obstruction and bowel necrosis, but clinical presentation is nonspecific. A definitive treatment plan has not been established with intussusception after RYGB. The aim of our study was to describe clinical presentation and outcomes of treatment in patients with intussusception after RYGB.

Methods: Out of 3022 patients who underwent laparoscopic RYGB between January 2003 and January 2013, 12 (0.4%) patients presented with intussusception after RYGB. A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was performed.

Results: Of the 12 patients, 11 (91.7%) presented with left or right upper quadrant abdominal pain as their chief complaint, and 1 (8.3%) presented with persistent nausea and vomiting. Diagnosis was made by computed tomographic scan (n = 1) or intraoperative findings (n = 11) at a mean period of 24.9 ± 26.0 months (range 3-85) after laparoscopic RYGB. Seven (58.3%) patients were treated only with reduction, 2 (16.7%) with resection and revision of J-J anastomosis, the remaining 3 (25.0%) underwent imbrication/plication of the J-J anastomosis. Only 1 (8.3%) patient, who was treated by reduction, returned with subsequent finding of recurrent intussusception at 9 months. All patients did well at a mean follow-up of 12.7 ± 16.4 months (range 1-47).

Conclusion: While reduction alone of the intussusception is safe and effective, there is a risk of recurrence, and imbrication of the J-J anastomosis may be a more effective means of treatment.

Keywords: Complications; Gastric bypass; Imbrication; Intussusception; Reduction; Revision.