Lisa Marie Presley’s cause of death has been revealed as complications from bariatric surgery, according to an autopsy report obtained by PEOPLE. The 54-year-old singer-songwriter died in January from a sequelae of a small bowel obstruction, which developed after undergoing the weight loss procedure several years ago.
The obstruction was a strangulated small bowel caused by adhesions that developed after her bariatric surgery. This is a known long-term complication of this type of surgery, noted Deputy Medical Examiner Dr. Juan Carrillo.
Bariatric surgery, which includes procedures like gastric bypass, involves modifying the digestive system to reduce food intake and absorption. Dr. Terry Dubrow, a board-certified plastic surgeon and star of Botched, explained the different types of bariatric surgery. Some procedures completely disconnect parts of the intestines to limit absorption, while others involve reducing the size of the stomach to limit food intake.
In order to qualify for bariatric surgery, patients typically need to have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40 and an associated medical condition related to obesity. Presley’s surgeon would have ensured she met these requirements.
While bariatric surgery can lead to weight loss, it also carries potential health risks. One common complication is malabsorption syndromes, where patients do not absorb enough vitamins and nutrients. This can result in anemia and skin conditions. Regular blood tests are important for monitoring nutrient levels before and after surgery.
Another complication of bariatric surgery is a small bowel obstruction, which ultimately led to Presley’s death. Scar tissue from the surgery can cause adhesions, which may catch parts of the bowel or impair its movement, leading to an obstruction. This can occur years after the surgery and is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.
The toxicology report from Presley’s autopsy also showed the presence of oxycodone in her blood. This, along with the combination of previous gastric bypass surgery and recent plastic surgery, could have contributed to the small bowel obstruction. Opioids can slow down the intestinal tract, potentially worsening the condition.
Dubrow advises patients who have undergone bariatric surgery to be vigilant about any symptoms they experience and seek medical attention. Symptoms of a small bowel obstruction include bloating, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should suspect a potential obstruction and get a simple abdominal x-ray at an urgent care facility.
It is crucial to prioritize the health and well-being of individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery. Regular follow-up appointments, monitoring nutrient levels, and seeking prompt medical attention for any concerning symptoms can help prevent complications and ensure optimal outcomes.
