Leukocytosis and neutrophilia after laparoscopic gastric plication.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic gastric plication (LGP) is a relatively novel bariatric surgery technique. We have encountered a noticeable proportion of our LGP patients with findings such as leukocytosis and neutrophilia and hypothesized that they are part of normal body response to the operation.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence and clinical importance of leukocytosis, neutrophilia and abnormal vital signs in patients undergoing LGP during postoperative period.

METHODS: Forty-four consecutive LGP patients were prospectively followed for 3 months. Records of 44 laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients were also reviewed for comparison. Preoperative and postoperative laboratory test were performed. Minor and major complications were recorded during the study period.

RESULTS: Mean body mass index (BMI) and age were 37and 42.5, respectively. Mean hospital stay was 3.6 days (range: 3-8 days). Leukocytosis and neutrophilia were detected in 63% and 72% of the LGP patients, respectively, 48 h after the procedure. Whereas, after cholecystectomy only 38.5% and 18% of patients had leukocytosis and neutrophilia, respectively. 25% of the patients suffered from at least one minor complication after LGP. There was no mortality.

CONCLUSIONS: Leukocytosis and neutrophilia are very common after LGP in both the complicated and uncomplicated cases, and may be a part of normal response to surgery.