Endoscopic Management of Vertical Banded Gastroplasty Stricture: Feasibility, Safety, and Efficacy.

BACKGROUND

Although vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) is no longer performed in the USA, due to its popularity in 1980s, many patients still possess this anatomy with its inherent complications. The stomal stenosis secondary to tight ring or mesh is traditionally treated with surgical removal of the silastic ring or a complex revision, which was hampered by complications, technical complexity, and invasiveness. We described our experience of endoscopic management of this complex problem and the early outcomes.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Tertiary care center.

PATIENTS

Thirteen consecutive patients with gastric outlet obstruction who underwent endoscopic intervention after vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG).

INTERVENTION

Endoscopic removal of silastic ring with self-expanding metal stent or endoscopic guided trans-gastric stapled stricturoplasty (TSS).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Feasibility, safety, and efficacy of endoscopic approaches.

RESULTS

Technical and clinical success in 11 patients (85 %) on first endoscopic attempt. Stent migrated in one patient, and another patient required second endoscopic intervention for recurring symptoms.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective analysis, single-institution study, and small sample size.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic approach to gastric outlet obstruction secondary to VBG regardless of type of restrictive device is safe and feasible with possible short-term benefit. This technique may also be use as bridge toward future revision surgery.