Laparoscopic Conversion of Sleeve Gastrectomy to Gastric Bypass for Super-Obesity (BMI ≥ 50 kg/m²) and Incisional Hernia: a Video Report.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most frequently performed procedure for morbid obesity in France. However, in case of de novo gastroesophageal reflux disease or of insufficient weight loss, LSG could be converted in rare cases to laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). In case of voluminous incisional hernia (IH) associated, this procedure could be technically challenging, especially in cases of super-obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥50 kg/m2). Furthermore, IH should be repaired in order to avoid life-threatening post-operative small bowel obstruction.

METHODS: We present the case of a 30-year-old woman (125 kg, 1.55 m) with a BMI of 52.1 kg/m2. She was referred to our tertiary care center for weight regain (Nadir 100 kg), 4 years after a LSG was performed for super-super obesity (BMI = 68.7 kg/m2). She also had a history of epigastric IH (single-incision LSG; diameter = 10 cm). The strategy adopted was to repair hernia with raphy. In case of hernia recurrence and of sustainable weight loss, use of prothetic mesh would be mandatory in the future.

RESULTS: In this multimedia video, we present a step-by-step laparoscopic conversion of sleeve gastrectomy to LRYGB for super-obesity (BMI ≥50 kg/m2) and incisional hernia. Laparoscopic procedure included adhesiolysis, dissection, and resection of the low part of the remnant stomach, gastro-jejunal circular anastomosis, and closure of aponeurosis defect.

CONCLUSIONS: Incisional hernia and morbid obesity are often entangled problems. Revisional procedure of bariatric surgery with incisional hernia associated should be performed laparoscopically.