Recurrent aspiration pneumonia after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding for obesity surgery

Abstract

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is an increasingly common therapeutic option in the management of obesity and certain obesity-related comorbid conditions. As it gains popularity for its advantages of being minimally invasive and reversible, clinicians should be aware of growing evidence of esophageal and pulmonary complications, which may be irreversible and associated with long-term morbidity. We report a case of esophageal and pulmonary complications in a patient with successful weight loss after lap-band surgery necessitating its removal.

Aspiration-related organizing pneumonia complicating laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding: A lung cancer mimicker

“…[ 5 6 ] In most cases, the complications following LABG manifest 6 months to 3 years after gastric banding. [ 4 5 7 ] Interestingly, our patient developed organizing pneumonia 12 years after LAGB, experiencing nocturnal GERD due to a tight gastric band. Previously examined patients with LABG-related aspiration pneumonia also reported GERD symptoms.…”

“…Previously examined patients with LABG-related aspiration pneumonia also reported GERD symptoms. [ 4 5 6 7 ] However, aspiration pneumonia rarely can be diagnosed in the absence of significant symptoms and when it is due to occult aspiration. [ 8 ]…”

Editor's Note

“…Case reports, a JCHIMP focus, is well represented with six full reports: clinically significant zinc-deficiency ( 7 ); low-pressure pericardial tamponade masquerading as sepsis until diagnosed by bedside ultrasound ( 8 ); aspiration pneumonia complicating bariatric surgery ( 9 ); massive pituitary adenoma ( 10 ); and primary cardiac sarcoma ( 11 ). There is a marvelous report on a dramatic scenario experienced by a new intern en route to a US internal medicine residency ( 12 ).…”