Weight Loss Surgery Complications and Risks

Question 1

What is an internal hernia, and which bariatric procedure carries the greatest risk for it?

Accepted Answer

Bowel herniation through a mesenteric defect created during surgery, most common after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Answer

Internal hernias occur when bowel protrudes through mesenteric defects created during RYGB construction, causing intermittent bowel obstruction.

Question 2

What is the most common early complication of bariatric surgery that requires emergency intervention?

Accepted Answer

Deep vein thrombosis / pulmonary embolism

Answer

DVT and pulmonary embolism are serious, potentially fatal early complications and are a leading cause of 30-day bariatric mortality.

Question 3

GERD (acid reflux) is known to worsen significantly after which bariatric procedure?

Accepted Answer

Sleeve gastrectomy

Answer

Sleeve gastrectomy can worsen or cause GERD because it reduces lower esophageal sphincter pressure and increases intragastric pressure.

Question 4

What is reactive hypoglycemia (late dumping) after bariatric surgery and how is it managed?

Accepted Answer

Post-meal blood sugar spike followed by insulin overshoot causing hypoglycemia, managed with small frequent low-carb meals

Answer

Reactive hypoglycemia occurs 1–3 hours after eating due to rapid carbohydrate absorption causing excessive insulin release; managed with dietary modification.

Question 5

Which bariatric complication presents with abdominal pain, tachycardia, and fever within 48 hours of surgery and is considered a surgical emergency?

Accepted Answer

Anastomotic or staple-line leak

Answer

Anastomotic leak causes leakage of gastric contents into the peritoneum, rapidly leading to sepsis and requiring urgent surgical management.

Weight Loss Surgery Practice Test

Weight Loss Surgery Practice Test

Weight Loss Surgery Complications and Risks