What is the Role of Image-Guided Endovascular Surgery in Postbariatric Surgery Bleeding Complications?

Abstract

Background:

Obesity treatment requires surgical procedures included in bariatric surgery. Bleeding complications are reported in 1%–4%. Image-guided surgery (IGS) includes minimally invasive procedures that have the advantage of less aggression to the patient, fewer complications, and a quick recovery. Endovascular therapy by interventional radiology (IR) is a minimally invasive image-guided procedure widely used in central, peripheral, and splanchnic vascular pathology. Treatment of postoperative bleeding in bariatric surgery can be aided by image-guided endovascular procedures.

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to carry out an update on the application of IR in bariatric surgery bleeding complications.

Bleeding Complications:

General rate of postoperative complications in bariatric surgery is 0%–10%. Postoperative bleeding (1%–4%) can be gastrointestinal (endoscopic treatment) or intra-abdominal (surgical treatment/relaparoscopy). In the case of arterial vascular lesions that cannot be resolved either endoscopically or surgically, the option of endovascular treatment with IR should be considered.

Conclusions:

Endovascular approach through IR and IGS in bleeding complications after bariatric surgery is presented as a valid minimally invasive therapy option in this group of patients.