Portomesenteric vein thrombosis following laparoscopic greater curve plication for morbid obesity

Abstract Portomesenteric venous thrombosis (PMVT) is an uncommon condition associated with intra-abdominal visceral ischemia that is often difficult to manage. While postoperative PMVT has been rarely reported following laparoscopic abdominal surgery, its occurrence in morbidly obese patients is gaining increasing concern due to its relatively higher incidence after laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Diagnosis of PMVT can be readily accomplished by computed tomography scan. Although prompt treatment with recanalisation of portovenous system and reversal of mesenteric venous ischemia can be potentially life-saving, the overall mortality of postoperative PMVT can only be controlled by understanding the underlying etiologies and preventing its occurrence. Here, we report a case of PMVT in a morbidly obese lady who presented at 10 days after an uneventful laparoscopic greater curve plication. The potential etiology and management of this rare complication are elucidated in details.