Gastric Sleeve Leak: What Is It & How It Is Treated?

Gastric sleeve leaks are rare, but they still occur. Keep reading to get the facts you need to better understand the causes behind gastric sleeve leaks and how they’re treated.

What Is a Gastric Sleeve Leak?

A gastric sleeve leak is a complication associated with gastric sleeve surgery. This complication occurs when digestive fluid from the stomach leaks through a hole in the new stomach pouch. The leak flows into the rest of the body and may cause damage to organs and tissues. Furthermore, the leaks can become fatal because digestive fluid is highly acidic. When fluid escapes, patients risk serious illness.

Types of Gastrointestinal Leaks

Surgeons classify gastrointestinal leaks into three categories: early, intermediate, and late. Early leaks can appear one to three days after surgery. Intermediate leaks can happen four to eight days post-operation, and late leaks can develop eight or more days after surgery. Some leaks are due to medical errors, and some are due to patient-related issues. For example, poor nutrition and smoking can induce leaks.

Common Symptoms of Leaks

After gastric sleeve surgery, patients must follow post-operative meal and recovery plans to ensure good results. Although side effects come with surgery, it’s critical to recognize extreme discomfort. Here are some common symptoms of gastric sleeve leaks:

• Intense nausea and vomiting
• Fast heart rate
• Abdominal and chest pain
• Dizziness
• Visible drainage from incisions
• Feelings of anxiety or illness

Leak Treatment

If patients experience symptoms of leaks, they must immediately contact their doctor. Quick medical intervention can prevent fatal outcomes. Patients can expect emergency surgery that involves the surgeon locating and sealing the hole. Surgeons will also drain the leaked fluids through a tube. Afterward, the surgeon may prescribe antibiotics to aid healing. Doctors will monitor patient performance post-op and ensure that no further complications occur.

What Can You Do

As previously mentioned, some leaks can happen due to patient-related issues. To minimize the chance of problems, comply with post-op care plans and meal instructions. Attend follow-up appointments and alert your doctor about any leak-related symptoms.

After learning about Gastric sleeve leak and how it is treated, why not share this information with someone you know who may be experiencing this rare but possible complication? If you’re searching for gastric sleeve doctors, please consider Slim Vegas Bariatric. If you have weight loss goals you want to achieve, we want to help!