Rare Complications of Gastric Bypass Surgery

As sleeve gastrectomies become more common, knowledge of rare complications following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is essential for any physician or surgeon taking care of a patient who has undergone gastric bypass. Long-term follow-up is vital for any bariatric procedure, especially gastric bypass. Physicians should educate patients on the importance of vitamin supplementation and cessation of risk factors for marginal ulceration, as well as evaluate any complaints of abdominal pain or vomiting. There are a number of rare complications that may occur after gastric bypass, including duodenal ulceration, intussusception, portomesenteric vein thrombosis, superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome, bezoars, bacterial overgrowth, and metabolic deficiencies. Therefore, heightened awareness of these rare complications of gastric bypass is crucial to effectively manage patients undergoing gastric bypass surgery.