POSTOPERATIVE BLEEDING AFTER LAPAROSCOPIC GASTRIC-SLEEVE: WHAT OPTIONS DO WE HAVE?

Abstract

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a relatively simple procedure, but the complications can quickly become life-threating. The aim of this study was to investigate based on our experience when is best to follow a conservative protocol in postoperative bleeding after sleeve gastrectomy. The study is retrospective, we identified a number of 150 cases of sleeve gastrectomy, of which 18 has postoperative bleeding.  A conservative approach with close observation (ultrasound, CT, Hb levels) was practiced in 10 cases and no surgical intervention was required.  The recommendations are as follows: The first and obvious recommendation is to stop anticoagulants. The perigastric drainage should drain, if Hb levels go down an nothing is coming through the drain consider other sources of bleed or try to reopen the blocked drain. A blood cloth developed around the bleeder may maintain the active bleed due to local fibrinolysis, in these cases, one should take into consideration guided drainage (ultrasound/CT) and monitor Hb levels afterward. The presence of a small perigastric collection without clinical manifestation should be left as such. Take into consideration reintervention if: signs of hypovolemia are present (tachycardia, hypotension, profuse sweating), Hb below 7g/dL. The patient's clinical state should always play an important role in decision making.