Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Postbariatric Surgery Polyneuropathies

BACKGROUND: Postbariatric surgery poly-neuropathies (BSP) are infrequent events. However, with the number of gastric bypasses performed each year increasing, the incidence of BSP is expected to increase as well. The long-term sequelae of BSP worsen with delays in diagnoses. Therefore, early evaluation, recognition, and treatment are important in minimizing morbidity and mortality. METHODS: We present the case report of a patient who developed a poly-neuropathy after a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. RESULTS: The patient's symptoms were ultimately determined to result from Guillain-Barré syndrome. Symptoms resolved with proper treatment. CONCLUSION: Characteristic differences exist between the various surgery poly-neuropathies. With proper evaluation, this determination will aid in prompt and appropriate treatment and will prevent morbidity and mortality.