Laparoscopic removal of gastric balloon after failure of endoscopic retrieval

INTRODUCTION: Different therapeutic measures have been developed in the treatment of obesity. Gastric balloon is a minimally-invasive modality in obesity treatment, but it is not without a risk of complications. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We present a 44-year-old morbidly obese lady who underwent gastric balloon insertion and refused to remove it at the recommended time. Unfortunately, after 18 months from insertion of the balloon, she was brought to the Emergency Department with symptoms of gastric outlet obstructions. Endoscopic retrieval of the balloon has failed. Hence, surgical intervention was planned and the balloon was successfully removed laparoscopically. DISCUSSION: Gastric balloons are designed to remain in the stomach for 6 months. Delayed extraction of the balloon associated with increase in the rate of complications. In our case, it was difficult to retrieve the balloon endoscopically due to thickened balloon wall, which was then removed laparoscopically safely without any complications. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic extraction of the gastric balloon is a safe and feasible option in the management of difficult endoscopic retrieval.