Duodenal Varices: A Rare Cause of Bleeding in a Bariatric Patient

Abstract

We report a rare but potentially fatal complication of duodenal variceal bleeding in a patient status postsleeve gastrectomy. A 52-year-old woman with a history of sleeve gastrectomy presented with melena. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed bleeding varices in the duodenum that was clipped. After being referred to our institution for further management, CT scans were re-reviewed and revealed large varices in the fourth/fifth segment of the duodenum and proximal jejunum. The patient was referred to surgery. This case highlighted the potential ectopic variceal bleeding after bariatric surgery and calls for detailed examination and open mind when managing postbariatric gastrointestinal bleeders.