A Case Series of Portal Vein Thrombosis Following Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Background: laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is presently the most common bariatric surgery at our center (King Hussein Medical Center). Portal vein thrombosis is a rare surgical complication with an insidious presentation and a high risk of bowel compromise. The aim of this study is to present a series of patients who developed portal vein thrombosis post sleeve gastrectomy, and to describe the overall incidence, associated risk factors, clinical presentation and management. Case Reports: Four patients developed portal vein thrombosis post laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy at King Hussein Medical Center during the period (Jan 2006 to Feb 2017). All patients presented with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting and decrease oral intake. The abdominal Computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed the diagnosis of portal vein thrombosis in all of them. One patient required medical treatment along with operative intervention and bowel resection. The other three patients were treated conservatively with anticoagulation and fluid resuscitation. Conclusion: Portal vein thrombosis is a rare but severe complication after laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Familiarity with this high-risk entity is critical. Early diagnosis and management, initiated by a high index of suspicion, is crucial.