Gastrobronchial Fistula: A Rare Complication Post-Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Abstract

A gastrobronchial fistula (GBF) is an abnormal connection between the stomach and the lungs, and is an extremely rare but serious complication of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). GBFs are usually the result of a persistent staple line leak that leads to the formation of a subphrenic abscess. The abscess may either spread through lymphatics or directly erode into the diaphragm and result in a GBF. We present the case of a 49-year-old female who developed a GBF after being managed for recurrent staple line leaks post-LSG. This case highlights the importance of timely detection and management of leaks to prevent this potentially fatal sequela.

J Curr Surg. 2020;10(3):41-44
doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jcs413