Suture line ulceration: a complication of gastric partitioning

Gastric partition with formation of a proximal pouch by staples and reinforced sutures is a well-accepted operation for obesity. Experience at this institution has included 2 cases of ulcers occurring at the partition line, a complication not well-described previously. These ulcers were located on the lesser curvature, appeared benign, and were characterized by chronic, severe pain. A suture associated with the ulcer was demonstrated endoscopically in 1 patient, although it could not be removed perorally.