EP-34 A rare cause of upper abdominal pain – left gastric artery trapped in gastric band

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Gastric banding has become one of the most commonly performed bariatric operations worldwide. Recognised complications are divided into; the laparoscopic approach, the band or the procedure itself. Gastric band misplacement is a rare but recognised early complication. Case description A 58-year-old patient presented to a district general hospital with a 6 day history of epigastric pain, incomplete dysphagia, vomiting, and constipation. Gastric band surgery had been performed 10 years prior in a UK tertiary centre. Diagnostic workup suggested the left gastric artery was trapped in the gastric band with no features of necrosis, perforation or obstruction. The patient was referred to the upper gastrointestinal surgical team and the band was removed laparoscopically and the patient had an uneventful recovery. Discussion Symptoms of gastric band misplacement may include nausea, vomiting, dysphagia, and upper abdominal pain. It is unusual that a malpositioned gastric band resulted in symptoms over 10 years after the procedure. Radiological evidence of gastric band misplacement in the literature is only reported in 0.07% of cases in plain radiograph. Surgical technique and experience are important to prevent band slippage, especially when considering the chosen placement and securing method. Conclusion This case describes an important late rare finding of complication following gastric band surgery. Consideration should be made in management for patients with gastric band presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms and a high level of clinical suspicion is needed to investigate and manage these patients.