What Does a Gastric Sleeve Leak Feel Like?

Gastric Sleeve Surgery, also known as Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), is a common bariatric procedure that reduces the size of the stomach, aiding in significant weight loss. However, like any surgery, it comes with potential risks—one of which is a gastric sleeve leak. A gastric sleeve leak occurs when there is a hole or tear along the staple line of the newly created stomach pouch, allowing stomach contents to leak into the abdominal cavity. Recognizing the symptoms of a gastric sleeve leak early is crucial for prompt treatment.

In this guide, we will discuss what a gastric sleeve leak feels like, the common symptoms, potential causes, and what to do if you suspect you have a leak.

At Tour Medical, we work with trusted Health Tourism Authorized clinics in Turkey to organize and coordinate your gastric sleeve journey, ensuring that you receive high-quality care throughout the process. Our partner clinics perform detailed evaluations and provide expert recommendations to help you determine if Gastric Sleeve Surgery is right for you.

What is a Gastric Sleeve Leak?

A gastric sleeve leak occurs when there is a breakdown along the staple line where the stomach was surgically reduced. This can lead to stomach fluids leaking into the abdominal cavity, potentially causing a serious infection known as peritonitis. Though this complication is relatively rare, it can be life-threatening if not addressed quickly.

Gastric sleeve leaks are categorized into:

• Early leaks (within 7 days of surgery)
• Late leaks (after 7 days)

The majority of leaks occur within the first few days following surgery, which is why close monitoring during the initial recovery phase is essential.

What Does a Gastric Sleeve Leak Feel Like?

The symptoms of a gastric sleeve leak can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain, depending on the severity and timing of the leak. Below are common symptoms to be aware of:

1. Severe Abdominal Pain

• Description: One of the most noticeable signs of a gastric sleeve leak is severe, unrelenting abdominal pain. The pain may be localized near the incision site or spread throughout the abdomen.
• What it Feels Like: It can feel like a sharp, stabbing pain that worsens with movement or even at rest. The pain may also be accompanied by a sense of tightness or pressure.

2. Fever and Chills

• Description: Developing a fever (typically above 100.4°F or 38°C) and chills is a sign that the body is responding to an infection, which could indicate a gastric sleeve leak.
• What it Feels Like: You may feel very hot and sweaty, along with experiencing shivering or chills, even when the room is warm.

3. Rapid Heart Rate (Tachycardia)

• Description: An increased heart rate is a common symptom of a gastric sleeve leak. The body responds by trying to deliver more blood to the affected area, leading to a rapid heartbeat.
• What it Feels Like: You may notice your heart pounding or racing even while resting, which may be accompanied by anxiety or lightheadedness.

4. Shortness of Breath

• Description: Stomach fluids in the abdominal cavity can irritate the diaphragm, leading to difficulty breathing.
• What it Feels Like: You may experience breathlessness, difficulty taking deep breaths, or the need to gasp for air, particularly noticeable when lying down.

5. Shoulder Pain

• Description: Referred pain, particularly in the left shoulder, can be a symptom of a gastric sleeve leak due to irritation of the diaphragm.
• What it Feels Like: The pain may feel like a dull, aching sensation that worsens when taking a deep breath or lying flat.

6. Nausea and Vomiting

• Description: Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of a gastric sleeve leak. Leaked gastric contents can cause irritation and inflammation in the abdominal cavity.
• What it Feels Like: You may feel ongoing queasiness, with or without vomiting. Vomiting may provide little to no relief from nausea.

7. Feeling of General Illness or Weakness

• Description: A gastric sleeve leak can cause a general feeling of being unwell, often accompanied by fatigue and weakness.
• What it Feels Like: You may feel extremely tired, weak, and unable to perform daily activities, often with a sense of malaise.

8. Drainage from Incision Site

• Description: In some cases, drainage from the incision site can indicate that fluid is leaking from the stomach.
• What it Feels Like: You may notice a foul-smelling discharge or pus-like fluid near your incision. The area may also be tender and red.

What Causes a Gastric Sleeve Leak?

Gastric sleeve leaks can be caused by several factors, including:

• Poor Healing of the Staple Line: Infection, poor blood supply, or pressure on the staple line can hinder healing.
• Increased Intra-Abdominal Pressure: Vomiting, coughing, or lifting heavy objects after surgery can increase pressure on the staple line, causing it to tear.
• Technical Errors During Surgery: In rare cases, improper stapling or damage to the stomach can lead to a leak.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, smoking, or poor nutrition can impede healing, increasing the risk of leaks.

What to Do If You Suspect a Gastric Sleeve Leak

A gastric sleeve leak is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, take the following steps:

1. Contact Your Surgeon Immediately
   Inform your surgeon about the symptoms. They may ask you to come in for an evaluation or suggest going to the emergency room.

2. Go to the Emergency Room
   If you cannot reach your surgeon or if the symptoms are severe, go to the nearest emergency room. Inform the medical staff that you recently had Gastric Sleeve Surgery and are concerned about a possible leak.

3. Tests and Diagnosis
   Diagnostic tests such as a CT scan, upper GI series, or endoscopy may be performed to confirm the presence of a leak.

4. Treatment
   Treatment depends on the severity of the leak. Mild leaks may be treated with antibiotics, drainage, and nutritional support, while severe leaks may require surgical intervention.

FAQs About Gastric Sleeve Leak Symptoms

1. What does a gastric sleeve leak feel like?
   It often feels like severe abdominal pain, along with symptoms such as fever, chills, rapid heart rate, and shortness of breath.

2. How soon after surgery can a gastric sleeve leak occur?
   Most leaks occur within the first 7 days after surgery, but they can also happen later in the recovery process.

3. Is fever a symptom of a gastric sleeve leak?
   Yes, fever is a common symptom and can indicate an infection caused by the leak.

4. Can a gastric sleeve leak cause shoulder pain?
   Yes, referred pain in the left shoulder can occur due to irritation of the diaphragm.

Even if you are not a patient of ours, you can contact us with any questions you may have. Our patient coordinators will be happy to assist you.

Email: info@tourmedical.com