A rare case of internal hernia, intussusception and volvulus following gastric bypass: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION: The Roux-en-y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery is one of the most common and successful weight loss procedures. Procedure mortality is low, but intestinal complications account for a high percentage of associated morbidity. Internal hernias remain one of the most common complications while volvulus and intussusception are rare. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 22-year-old woman with a past surgical history of laparoscopic RYGB six years prior presented with a 12 -h history of abdominal pain. Exploratory laparotomy revealed concomitant volvulus, internal hernia and intussusception at the J-J anastomosis which was reduced without need for bowel resection. Her post-operative course was unremarkable and she was discharged home five days later. DISCUSSION: Many previous cases of intussusception related to RYGB surgery have required treatment with bowel resection secondary to delayed surgical intervention. Due to high variability in clinical presentation of post-RYGB obstruction, a high index of suspicion is necessary for prompt recognition. Early surgical intervention may prevent the need for bowel resection and improve patient outcomes. CONCLUSION: This case represents an unusual complication of RYGB involving intussusception, internal hernia and volvulus that was successfully managed without need for bowel resection due to early identification and surgical intervention.