Gastrobronchial Fistula in Sleeve Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass—A Systematic Review

Gastrobronchial fistula (GBF) is a rare surgical complication after bariatric surgery. We aimed to identify the clinical aspects of GBF and establish diagnostic and treatment strategies. A literature search was conducted in December 2013, in the PubMed electronic database. Eleven studies were selected, comprising a total of 36 patients. Most patients presented with a gastric leak prior to the diagnosis of GBF. Mean period until diagnosis was 7.2 months, and main presenting symptoms were productive cough ( n = 13) and subphrenic abscess ( n = 12). Endoscopic treatment was successful in 18 out of 20 patients, with minimal complication. Surgical treatment was successful in 17 cases with significant complications. GBF can be effectively treated with both endoscopic and surgical approach; however, surgical treatment can be associated with more complication.