Role of radiologic contrast studies in the early postoperative period after bariatric surgery

Background: Radiologic contrast studies have been used routinely to rule ou t gastrointestinal (GI) leaks and to evaluate gastric emptying after bariat ric surgery. The aim of the study was to evaluate the value of this study i n the diagnosis of early complications. Patients and Methods: 100 morbidly obese patients underwent bariatric surge ry at our institution in a 7-year period. An upper GI series was routinely performed 48 to 72 hours after surgery. Clinical and radiologic records wer e reviewed, analyzing demographic characteristics, type of surgery, radiolo gic findings, and clinical evolution with emphasis on the presence of leaks . Results: Mean age was 36 +/- 10 years; there were 68 women and 32 men. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 48 10 kg/m(2). All radiologic examinations ruled out the presence of leaks and showed adequate gastroesophageal emptying. O ne patient with normal postoperative x-ray studies developed a small GI fis tula after starting liquid diet. Conclusions: Contrast radiologic studies permit good visualization of the g astric anatomy after bariatric surgery. They usually confirm adequate gastr ic emptying, but might be unable to demonstrate small gastric leaks.