Hybrid Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Management of Gastric Band Erosion Resulting in Bowel Obstruction

Abstract

While laparoscopic gastric banding is not as prevalent, the management of patients with a history of gastric banding remains a concern. Gastric bands have been noted to erode and can migrate through the bowel leading to a variety of issues. We were able to successfully manage this almost completely endoscopically without the need for a bowel enterotomy for retrieval. This allowed for enhanced patient recovery and avoided the morbidity associated with bowel enterotomy which is commonly done in these settings.