Wernicke’s encephalopathy after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Journal of Minimal Access Surgery 2026 Open access

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Authors: Mikel Rojo Abecia, María Marqueta de Salas, Ana Álvarez Cuiñas, María Dolores Cancelas Felgueras, Ricardo Jesús Castro Lara, Asier Mañaricua Arnaiz, Sara Neira Melus, Míriam Pérez Pelayo, Raquel Blanco Corral, Javier Martín Ramiro
DOI: 10.4103/jmas.jmas_231_25
Cited by: 0
References: 3

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Bariatric surgery is one of the causes of Wernicke's encephalopathy. It is more frequent in techniques with malabsorption and less common in surgeries such as sleeve gastrectomy. We present the case of a 48-year-old patient with a body mass index of 55 who, after a sleeve gastrectomy with cholecystectomy, suffered an episode of prolonged vomiting and was hospitalised with confusion, amnesia and limb weakness associated with low thiamine levels. After a diagnosis based on clinical manifestations and low blood thiamine levels, treatment with intravenous thiamine was started with an adequate evolution. Clinical suspicion is essential for prompt treatment to reduce the risk of serious sequelae or death.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Alcoholism and Thiamine Deficiency Bariatric Surgery and Outcomes Liver Disease and Transplantation

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Minimal Access Surgery
Volume
22
Issue
4
Pages
438–440
Publication date
26 February 2026
Language
EN