Bariatric surgery has developed considerably over recent years due to the progressive increase in obesity worldwide. The laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a new restrictive technique, with promising initial outcomes. CT images play an important role in postoperative evaluation as well as in complication management in patients undergoing this surgical technique. Here we review the role of abdominal computed tomography in the study of potential complications.

Ultrasound guided needle biopsy of the spleen. Review of 13 procedures Background: Needle biopsies of the spleen were avoided due to the fear of bleeding in a highly vascularized organ. However their safety, even using 18 gauge needles, has been demonstrated. Aim: To report the experience with ultrasound guided needle biopsies of the spleen. Material and Methods: Retrospective review of records of ultrasound guided biopsies of the spleen using Tru-cut™ needles, performed between 2005 and 2009. Results: Thirteen procedures performed in 12 patients were identifi ed. A specifi c diagnosis was achieved in nine (69%) procedures (lymphoma in four, melanoma in 2, sarcoma in 1, extremedullary erythropoiesis in one and splenic cryptococcosis in one. Two patients with negative results were subjected to a new biopsy, which yielded the diagnosis of lymphoma. A third patient was studied elsewhere, fi nding a malignant tumor. Two patients had complications, one had a vagal reaction and other had a perisplenic hematoma without clinical repercussion. Conclusions: Ultrasound guided needle biopsy of the spleen is a safe and useful procedure.