Complications of bariatric surgery.
OBJECTIVE
Morbid obesity is an epidemic in the United States and parts of Europe, with severe health consequences. As the number of patients undergoing bariatric surgery has increased dramatically, it is crucial for the gastroenterologist caring for these patients to have a better understanding of the procedures, their unique complications and the proper management for these complications.


RESULTS
The incidence of the most significant complications is calculated from recent publications. Radiological and endoscopic workup is useful for diagnosis. Endoscopic dilation of strictures is possible. Endoscopic intervention for selected leaks and fistulas has been reported.


CONCLUSIONS
This review describes the most common types of bariatric surgery, discusses the complications that each can cause, and addresses the recommended approach for their work-up and management in order to better equip the gastroenterologist in dealing with this new field.
Lee
Calvin W
CW
Department of Gastroenterology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.
Kelly
John J
JJ
Wassef
Wahid Y
WY
D015746:Abdominal Pain / Q000209:etiology; D000714:Anastomosis, Surgical; D050110:Bariatric Surgery / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015904:Biliopancreatic Diversion / Q000009:adverse effects; D003967:Diarrhea / Q000453:epidemiology; D015390:Gastric Bypass / Q000009:adverse effects; D006471:Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D009767:Obesity, Morbid / Q000601:surgery; D015431:Weight Loss