Early Operation for Complications Arising From Bariatric Surgical Tourism

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Bariatric Surgery
• Medical Tourism

Background:

• Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is a bariatric procedure.
• Medical tourism for bariatric surgery is a growing trend.
• Adequate post-operative follow-up is crucial for managing bariatric surgery outcomes.

Observation:

• A 48-year-old female patient underwent LAGB in Mexico as a medical tourist.
• She experienced a port infection and chronic abdominal pain due to a retained band.
• Band erosion was diagnosed during attempted removal of the retained band.

Findings:

• Complete band erosion occurred in a patient with a history of LAGB and no post-operative follow-up.
• Port infection following LAGB necessitates investigation for intra-abdominal complications.
• Surgical removal of the eroded band resolved the patient's chronic symptoms.

Implications:

• This case highlights potential risks associated with bariatric medical tourism, particularly the lack of sustained patient monitoring.
• Timely recognition and management of complications like band erosion are vital for patient recovery.
• Healthcare providers should be vigilant in diagnosing and treating delayed complications of bariatric surgery, irrespective of the initial procedure location.