Postgastrectomy afferent loop obstruction due to efferent loop herniation simulating acute pancreatitis

Abstract

A case of afferent loop obstruction due to efferent loop retro-anastomatic herniation following a Polya gastrectomy is presented. The clinical picture closely mimicked that of acute pancreatitis. The difficulty in diagnosis in this situation is discussed and the importance of operative techniques in its prevention emphasized.