Laparoscopic Splenectomy Combined with Revision of Previous Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass

Abstract

Advanced laparoscopic operations can be performed in patients who have previously undergone laparoscopic gastric bypass, because there are fewer adhesions than after open procedures. Also, revisions of previous laparoscopic gastric bypasses can be done laparoscopically for the same reasons. To demonstrate this, we present a patient who had undergone a laparoscopic gastric bypass. The operation was successful initially. After 10 months, she started to regain some of her lost weight. It was also found that she had developed idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura, which was unresponsive to steroids. She underwent a splenectomy and revision of her gastric bypass, both done laparoscopically. This case demonstrates that these advanced laparoscopic procedures can be performed safely, even after previous surgery.