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Self-expanding stents in treatment of esophageal leaks post bariatric surgery

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Abstract

The Alimaxx self-expanding metal stents were used in two morbidly obese patients with esophageal leaks complicating reoperative bariatric surgery. Although the patients could be maintained on oral intake with their sepsis controlled, surgery was ultimately required for non-healing after 3 weeks of conservative management. Self-expanding metal stent should be considered the preferred treatment in small esophageal leaks less than 1 cm in morbidly obese patients who generally pose a higher operative risk due to concomitant co-morbidities. Stents are also useful adjuncts in patients with larger leaks that are either inoperable or need further stabilization at presentation and those preferring an initial 2–3 weeks trial of conservative management before contemplating surgery.

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Acknowledgments

The author wish to acknowledge the assistance of Michael Nwiloh with typing and sketching of illustrations.

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  1. Section of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Atlanta Medical Center, 303 Parkway Drive, NE Atlanta, GA, 30312, USA

    Jonathan O. Nwiloh

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  1. Jonathan O. Nwiloh
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Correspondence to Jonathan O. Nwiloh.

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Nwiloh, J.O. Self-expanding stents in treatment of esophageal leaks post bariatric surgery. Gen Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 61, 38–42 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11748-012-0120-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11748-012-0120-5

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