Comments for Arturo Rodriguez, MD http://arturorodriguezmd.com Lapband, Gastric Bypass, Gastric Sleeve,Type 2 Diabetes, Weight loss Surgery, Obesity, Life after Lapband, Lapband Prices Thu, 17 May 2012 22:14:54 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.3 Comment on Lapband Surgery in Mexico by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/about-arturo-rodriguez-md/lapband-surgery-in-mexico/comment-page-1#comment-10395 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Thu, 17 May 2012 22:14:54 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?page_id=173#comment-10395 Hi Georgeann, I remember you since for first contact you did after so many years. I will suggest you to have a port replacement and also the new port to be placed in a new location since they have found there are no problems at the level of the lapband. The ports of the lapband have changed since you had your lapband surgery and the old ports used to have small breaks very close to the port and hose connection. An alternative to the lapband I like the gastric sleeve rather the gastric bypass since do not have the protein and vitamin deficiencies and takes the hunger away but also some patients do not reach the goal weight they expect. You can contact Tricia at tricia@thebariatric.com she is very helpful in cases like yours. You can contact me anytime you want. Hi Georgeann,
I remember you since for first contact you did after so many years.
I will suggest you to have a port replacement and also the new port to be placed in a new location since they have found there are no problems at the level of the lapband.
The ports of the lapband have changed since you had your lapband surgery and the old ports used to have small breaks very close to the port and hose connection.
An alternative to the lapband I like the gastric sleeve rather the gastric bypass since do not have the protein and vitamin deficiencies and takes the hunger away but also some patients do not reach the goal weight they expect.
You can contact Tricia at tricia@thebariatric.com she is very helpful in cases like yours.
You can contact me anytime you want.

]]> Comment on Lapband Surgery in Mexico by Georgeann Holland http://arturorodriguezmd.com/about-arturo-rodriguez-md/lapband-surgery-in-mexico/comment-page-1#comment-10393 Georgeann Holland Thu, 17 May 2012 14:51:18 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?page_id=173#comment-10393 It may be my case although it has been sensitive, since I first had my surgery. The tenderness has not changed. I can feel the port but it is firmly in place and does not feel loose. I did not have a large stomach when I began this process. I have always carried my weight more in my hips and lower body. I am also a small framed person. Would my CT with contrast this week have shown an irregular placement or tissue irregularity?. When I have told the Doctor and the nurses in these past years that it is tender, I have always been told this is normal. My doctor is David Voellinger of Southeast Bariatrics in Charlotte NC. He did perform an emergency gallbladder removal for Jayme in Nov of 2004 after you did her band the previous July. You told us that you found a diseased gallblader and she did end up with pancreatitus and surgery. You may remember her as I sent you her medical history regarding possible histoplasmosis and you introduced us to a pulmonary doctor? I know you see many patients so you may not remember her but you were very helpful and were the only doctor who actually helped us. So now Momma needs so good direction and then when we decide what direction to go, I need to speak with your gals for financial planning . Thank you Dr. Rodriguez. It may be my case although it has been sensitive, since I first had my surgery. The tenderness has not changed. I can feel the port but it is firmly in place and does not feel loose. I did not have a large stomach when I began this process. I have always carried my weight more in my hips and lower body. I am also a small framed person. Would my CT with contrast this week have shown an irregular placement or tissue irregularity?. When I have told the Doctor and the nurses in these past years that it is tender, I have always been told this is normal. My doctor is David Voellinger of Southeast Bariatrics in Charlotte NC. He did perform an emergency gallbladder removal for Jayme in Nov of 2004 after you did her band the previous July. You told us that you found a diseased gallblader and she did end up with pancreatitus and surgery. You may remember her as I sent you her medical history regarding possible histoplasmosis and you introduced us to a pulmonary doctor? I know you see many patients so you may not remember her but you were very helpful and were the only doctor who actually helped us. So now Momma needs so good direction and then when we decide what direction to go, I need to speak with your gals for financial planning . Thank you Dr. Rodriguez.

]]> Comment on Lapband Surgery in Mexico by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/about-arturo-rodriguez-md/lapband-surgery-in-mexico/comment-page-1#comment-10392 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Thu, 17 May 2012 12:15:36 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?page_id=173#comment-10392 Some patients, when the fat tissue is almost gone, the port tend to be very close to the skin and can have irritative symptoms. Is this your case? Some patients, when the fat tissue is almost gone, the port tend to be very close to the skin and can have irritative symptoms. Is this your case?

]]> Comment on Lapband Surgery in Mexico by Georgeann Holland http://arturorodriguezmd.com/about-arturo-rodriguez-md/lapband-surgery-in-mexico/comment-page-1#comment-10391 Georgeann Holland Thu, 17 May 2012 04:13:43 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?page_id=173#comment-10391 I just had a abdomen and pelvic ct with contrast this week and it was normal. I have also had 2 fluroscopies in the past month. My last endoscopy was Nov 2010 and was normal. Would any of these procedures show an erosio?. I am talking about the tenderness that has remained since the first day of my surgery.With my weight loss and gain again the port is intact but my stomach muscle has obviously stretched and moved.In the beginning, it felt like it was more upper left and now it feels more close to the waist area. I do not eat spicy foods nor consume alot of alcohol nor have I experienced vomitting or much reflux. I just have always had tenderness and it is uncomfortable to sleep on that left side for long. I just had a abdomen and pelvic ct with contrast this week and it was normal. I have also had 2 fluroscopies in the past month. My last endoscopy was Nov 2010 and was normal. Would any of these procedures show an erosio?. I am talking about the tenderness that has remained since the first day of my surgery.With my weight loss and gain again the port is intact but my stomach muscle has obviously stretched and moved.In the beginning, it felt like it was more upper left and now it feels more close to the waist area. I do not eat spicy foods nor consume alot of alcohol nor have I experienced vomitting or much reflux. I just have always had tenderness and it is uncomfortable to sleep on that left side for long.

]]> Comment on About Site: Arturo Rodriguez, MD by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/about-arturo-rodriguez-md/comment-page-1#comment-10390 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Thu, 17 May 2012 02:44:11 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?page_id=2#comment-10390 Hello Georgeann, It was great to talk to you today! I have already answer your questions and you can call me back tomorrow if you still need to talk with me. Hello Georgeann,
It was great to talk to you today!
I have already answer your questions and you can call me back tomorrow if you still need to talk with me.

]]> Comment on Lapband Surgery in Mexico by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/about-arturo-rodriguez-md/lapband-surgery-in-mexico/comment-page-1#comment-10389 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Thu, 17 May 2012 02:39:03 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?page_id=173#comment-10389 Hello Georgeann, I have several thoughts from what you have told me. When I see inflammatory reaction at the port area I always look for lapband erosion since about 30% of them are shown in there. Also, after a patient have several fills and the port area is painful I also look for infection there caused by contamination. Some times leaking at the port area are difficult to detect specially if they are very small and replacement of the port or re-locating the port with shortening of the tube will do the job. In some patients that the upper pouch is big and have lapband problems I suggest to do the gastric sleeve which is safer than the gastric bypass and does not have the vitamins and proteins deficiency seen in the bypass. There are other patients that want the lapband to be re-located or changed, and the choice is made by the way they handle the lapband and how they have adjusted to the changes in the old bad habits they had. So, first step is to rule out erosion and if that comes OK then is up to you the way you want to handle. Hello Georgeann,
I have several thoughts from what you have told me.
When I see inflammatory reaction at the port area I always look for lapband erosion since about 30% of them are shown in there.
Also, after a patient have several fills and the port area is painful I also look for infection there caused by contamination.
Some times leaking at the port area are difficult to detect specially if they are very small and replacement of the port or re-locating the port with shortening of the tube will do the job.
In some patients that the upper pouch is big and have lapband problems I suggest to do the gastric sleeve which is safer than the gastric bypass and does not have the vitamins and proteins deficiency seen in the bypass.
There are other patients that want the lapband to be re-located or changed, and the choice is made by the way they handle the lapband and how they have adjusted to the changes in the old bad habits they had.
So, first step is to rule out erosion and if that comes OK then is up to you the way you want to handle.

]]> Comment on About Site: Arturo Rodriguez, MD by Georgeann Holland http://arturorodriguezmd.com/about-arturo-rodriguez-md/comment-page-1#comment-10387 Georgeann Holland Wed, 16 May 2012 18:16:53 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?page_id=2#comment-10387 I just left a letter to Dr Rodriguez on the page that talks about lapband surgery in Mexico. After I sent my letter.... it said awaiting moderation. I am not sure what this means. Do I need to redo my letter? I just left a letter to Dr Rodriguez on the page that talks about lapband surgery in Mexico. After I sent my letter…. it said awaiting moderation. I am not sure what this means. Do I need to redo my letter?

]]> Comment on Lapband Surgery in Mexico by Georgeann Holland http://arturorodriguezmd.com/about-arturo-rodriguez-md/lapband-surgery-in-mexico/comment-page-1#comment-10386 Georgeann Holland Wed, 16 May 2012 17:58:19 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?page_id=173#comment-10386 Hello Dr. Rodriguez! I have been there for surgeries, done by you, with 3 other patients. I have referred 10 people to you and they all had various weight loss surgeries that you performed for their ONLY surgery and none of them have had problems. I had medical insurance that covered my lap band here in Nov. of 2007. If you took my insurance I would have wanted you to do mine as well. I was seen by three surgeons before the decision about which surgery I had was chosen. My primary Doctor and one Surgeon wanted the Lapband and the second surgeons wanted the gastric band. I had/have Fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis,and my Rheumatoid factors have been positive at times, I have bad knees and I had a history of gastroesophogeal reflux with a then large hiatal hernia. Because I had numerous health issues, and also previous surgeries which showed evidence of internal scar tissue in my pelvic area. My primary doctor thought that I could possibly have scar tissue problems with a bypass so he decided that I should have the lapband. After having the band surgery, I read literature from the makers of the allergan bands that people with autoimmune disease could have problems and people on the verge of a possible autoimmune disease could develop one, if a gastric band was placed. It said the gastric band was not a good choice with these issues. I have been a model patient and I have lost 87% of my excess weight. I started with a bmi of 39 with comorbities as a reason for surgery approval. I weighed 247 and got to 159. Last year, with no change in my eating habits, I began having a sudden weight gain. I have spent this past year having numerous tests by various doctors to rule out that I was not having other medical issues. My lapband surgeon is a bariactric center providing post surgery and ongoing care. he originally told me that I had no leaks. I went to a second bariatric doctor who did 4 fills, but each time I lost cc amounts. He said I had no leaks but could not explain continual loss of fluid. two of these fills were done with fluroscopy. I went back to my first surgeon and he did a fluroscopy but could see no leak with the contrast. he left the contrast in my band and one month later did another fluroscopy and could see no leak but I had lost contrast fluid cc from the previous month. So now I too need to have, what he guesses, is a port and tube replacement. I no longer am insured for any bariatric procedure. BUT HERE IS MY BIG QUESTION FOR YOU... I have had continual sore achy pain where my port is located on the left side since day one. I have always suspected that this could be an inflammatory response because of my autoimmune diseases. IF I am going to do something to my body again should I go with a replacement of these components given the obvious problems with possible band /tube/ port punctures? I have had most of them done with fluroscopy but I do know that the second surgeon did cause severe punture bleeding at my port site during one fill and then found debris in my band when I went back to him for a second fill. I know that a puncture may have happened but can do nothing about it. I have complete trust with your opinion as to what direction I should go. my original surgeon says that because I was so good and lost great weight with the band, I should do it again. The continual pain at my port and the possibility of another puncture concern me. I am now 62 and I am 5'5 and I weigh 200. I now feel like my previous health concerns have come back with a vengence. I cant afford to have my new surgery here. Also in 2010 with endoscopy, my Gastro Doctor noticed another Hiatal hernia. We are a bariatric family. Jayme, my daughter you did a band on In July 2004 and my husband had bypass in Nov 2004 have had no problems. What do you suggest and then what would the cost be for that surgery? Thank you for reading my book. I am so confused at so many opinions and I know you have so much experience. Georgeann Hello Dr. Rodriguez! I have been there for surgeries, done by you, with 3 other patients. I have referred 10 people to you and they all had various weight loss surgeries that you performed for their ONLY surgery and none of them have had problems. I had medical insurance that covered my lap band here in Nov. of 2007. If you took my insurance I would have wanted you to do mine as well. I was seen by three surgeons before the decision about which surgery I had was chosen. My primary Doctor and one Surgeon wanted the Lapband and the second surgeons wanted the gastric band. I had/have Fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis,and my Rheumatoid factors have been positive at times, I have bad knees and I had a history of gastroesophogeal reflux with a then large hiatal hernia. Because I had numerous health issues, and also previous surgeries which showed evidence of internal scar tissue in my pelvic area. My primary doctor thought that I could possibly have scar tissue problems with a bypass so he decided that I should have the lapband. After having the band surgery, I read literature from the makers of the allergan bands that people with autoimmune disease could have problems and people on the verge of a possible autoimmune disease could develop one, if a gastric band was placed. It said the gastric band was not a good choice with these issues. I have been a model patient and I have lost 87% of my excess weight. I started with a bmi of 39 with comorbities as a reason for surgery approval. I weighed 247 and got to 159. Last year, with no change in my eating habits, I began having a sudden weight gain. I have spent this past year having numerous tests by various doctors to rule out that I was not having other medical issues. My lapband surgeon is a bariactric center providing post surgery and ongoing care. he originally told me that I had no leaks. I went to a second bariatric doctor who did 4 fills, but each time I lost cc amounts. He said I had no leaks but could not explain continual loss of fluid. two of these fills were done with fluroscopy. I went back to my first surgeon and he did a fluroscopy but could see no leak with the contrast. he left the contrast in my band and one month later did another fluroscopy and could see no leak but I had lost contrast fluid cc from the previous month. So now I too need to have, what he guesses, is a port and tube replacement. I no longer am insured for any bariatric procedure. BUT HERE IS MY BIG QUESTION FOR YOU… I have had continual sore achy pain where my port is located on the left side since day one. I have always suspected that this could be an inflammatory response because of my autoimmune diseases. IF I am going to do something to my body again should I go with a replacement of these components given the obvious problems with possible band /tube/ port punctures? I have had most of them done with fluroscopy but I do know that the second surgeon did cause severe punture bleeding at my port site during one fill and then found debris in my band when I went back to him for a second fill. I know that a puncture may have happened but can do nothing about it. I have complete trust with your opinion as to what direction I should go. my original surgeon says that because I was so good and lost great weight with the band, I should do it again. The continual pain at my port and the possibility of another puncture concern me. I am now 62 and I am 5’5 and I weigh 200. I now feel like my previous health concerns have come back with a vengence. I cant afford to have my new surgery here. Also in 2010 with endoscopy, my Gastro Doctor noticed another Hiatal hernia. We are a bariatric family. Jayme, my daughter you did a band on In July 2004 and my husband had bypass in Nov 2004 have had no problems. What do you suggest and then what would the cost be for that surgery? Thank you for reading my book. I am so confused at so many opinions and I know you have so much experience. Georgeann

]]> Comment on Lap Band Surgery and Exercise by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-surgery-and-exercise/comment-page-1#comment-10374 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Tue, 15 May 2012 00:49:19 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=183#comment-10374 Hello Mary, In some patients the scar tissue have made impossible to perform a second surgery. Hello Mary,
In some patients the scar tissue have made impossible to perform a second surgery.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Surgery and Exercise by Mary Dillon http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-surgery-and-exercise/comment-page-1#comment-10365 Mary Dillon Sun, 13 May 2012 17:35:15 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=183#comment-10365 What kind of complications can the scar tissue cause What kind of complications can the scar tissue cause

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10226 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:46:25 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10226 Hello Amanda, I like to take seriously when is pain at the port area or under the left ribs. I usually take some of the fluid out and at the same time evaluate the lapband status. You can take antacids while you have your lapband evaluated. Hello Amanda,
I like to take seriously when is pain at the port area or under the left ribs.
I usually take some of the fluid out and at the same time evaluate the lapband status.
You can take antacids while you have your lapband evaluated.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by Amanda http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10223 Amanda Thu, 19 Apr 2012 10:06:54 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10223 Hello Doctor. I have had a lap band for 13 months now and this last week I have been experiencing pain under my left rib for almost a week now! What does this mean? Hello Doctor.
I have had a lap band for 13 months now and this last week I have been experiencing pain under my left rib for almost a week now! What does this mean?

]]> Comment on Lap Band Leaks: What You Should Know by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-10205 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Tue, 17 Apr 2012 18:32:41 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-10205 Hi Kim, The lapband port repair for leaking can be done under local anesthesia and sedatives and can be done at the doctor's office specially if the doctor is experienced in this kind of problems. Hi Kim,
The lapband port repair for leaking can be done under local anesthesia and sedatives and can be done at the doctor’s office specially if the doctor is experienced in this kind of problems.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Leaks: What You Should Know by Kim http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-10203 Kim Tue, 17 Apr 2012 16:27:38 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-10203 Hey Dr Rodriguez, To have a repair to the port or the tub near the port is surgery under Anastasia required? Or is this something that can be done in the office? Hey Dr Rodriguez,

To have a repair to the port or the tub near the port is surgery under Anastasia required? Or is this something that can be done in the office?

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10200 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Mon, 16 Apr 2012 20:55:55 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10200 Hi Jenny, Your questions are welcome any time. Hi Jenny,
Your questions are welcome any time.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by Jennie http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10199 Jennie Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:41:59 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10199 Thanks for responding so quickly Dr Rodriguez! I actually had diarrhea for a while. Anytime I would drink something it would go right thru me. I haven't had an shakes for days but I was taking vitamins so I will stop that. My doctor had me drink Propel because of the diarrhea and start taking my pain meds again to stop it. I will see my doctor tomorrow so hopefully I'll get some answers then. Thanks so much! Thanks for responding so quickly Dr Rodriguez! I actually had diarrhea for a while. Anytime I would drink something it would go right thru me. I haven’t had an shakes for days but I was taking vitamins so I will stop that. My doctor had me drink Propel because of the diarrhea and start taking my pain meds again to stop it. I will see my doctor tomorrow so hopefully I’ll get some answers then. Thanks so much!

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10197 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Mon, 16 Apr 2012 04:21:18 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10197 Hello Jennie, You need to quit taking vitamins or protein shakes if you are doing so. Also need to take Maalox and Pepcid and no irritants. You also need to call your doctor to be evaluated to ruled out that your symptoms are related to gallbladder surgery. Hello Jennie,
You need to quit taking vitamins or protein shakes if you are doing so.
Also need to take Maalox and Pepcid and no irritants.
You also need to call your doctor to be evaluated to ruled out that your symptoms are related to gallbladder surgery.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Leaks: What You Should Know by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-10196 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Mon, 16 Apr 2012 04:14:23 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-10196 Hello Cheri, Some of the old lapband ports were prone to break and leak at the connection with the hose and they changed the lapband port design. There are other causes of lapband leak at the port area and one of them is the office fills where the needle can damage the hose. The first step is to evaluate the level of the leak and to fix it re-locating the port and removing couple inches from the hose. Hello Cheri,
Some of the old lapband ports were prone to break and leak at the connection with the hose and they changed the lapband port design.
There are other causes of lapband leak at the port area and one of them is the office fills where the needle can damage the hose.
The first step is to evaluate the level of the leak and to fix it re-locating the port and removing couple inches from the hose.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by Jennie http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10195 Jennie Mon, 16 Apr 2012 04:03:55 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10195 I need to add to my above post. I also had my gall bladder removed that day. I'm also having this thing that feels like a hiccup but gets stuck below my diaphragm. It happened a lot the first few days then stopped but started back up today. It creates a lot of pressure when it happens. I need to add to my above post. I also had my gall bladder removed that day. I’m also having this thing that feels like a hiccup but gets stuck below my diaphragm. It happened a lot the first few days then stopped but started back up today. It creates a lot of pressure when it happens.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by Jennie http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10194 Jennie Mon, 16 Apr 2012 03:47:53 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10194 Hi Dr Rodriguez, I just had my band placed on 4/9/12. I started feeling better at day 4 and 5 and even better on day 6. However, today I'm having a lot of pain in the middle/right side of my back and a lot of what feels like pressure on the left side (under my ribs). It actually hurts to lay flat. When I do and I try to take a deep breath it is VERY painful and almost feels like something is stopping me from taking in that breath. I did have a little little bit of tuna fish today (soft food as my diet says I can). It hurts to stand up straight too. I'm having a hard time drinking fluids because it feels like I'm adding to the pressure. I see my doctor on Tuesday but was wondering if this was normal or what it could possibly be. Thanks so much! Hi Dr Rodriguez,

I just had my band placed on 4/9/12. I started feeling better at day 4 and 5 and even better on day 6. However, today I’m having a lot of pain in the middle/right side of my back and a lot of what feels like pressure on the left side (under my ribs). It actually hurts to lay flat. When I do and I try to take a deep breath it is VERY painful and almost feels like something is stopping me from taking in that breath. I did have a little little bit of tuna fish today (soft food as my diet says I can). It hurts to stand up straight too. I’m having a hard time drinking fluids because it feels like I’m adding to the pressure. I see my doctor on Tuesday but was wondering if this was normal or what it could possibly be.
Thanks so much!

]]> Comment on Lap Band Leaks: What You Should Know by Cheri http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-10193 Cheri Mon, 16 Apr 2012 02:07:36 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-10193 Hi Doc, I had lapband 5 years ago... I have lost 127 pounds at goal weight. I had a first leak at 6 months and repaired. No problems until now another leak. I have already paid for first surgery and first leak. I don't think its fair to pay again for second leak. I have worked my butt off. I didn't do anything to cause a leak. Why and what happens why am I leaking AGAIN. I'm so frustrated. I can't afford more surgery. At what poing its it the makers of Lap Band? thank you Hi Doc,
I had lapband 5 years ago… I have lost 127 pounds at goal weight. I had a first leak at 6 months and repaired. No problems until now another leak. I have already paid for first surgery and first leak. I don’t think its fair to pay again for second leak. I have worked my butt off. I didn’t do anything to cause a leak. Why and what happens why am I leaking AGAIN. I’m so frustrated. I can’t afford more surgery. At what poing its it the makers of Lap Band? thank you

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10178 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Sat, 14 Apr 2012 00:53:12 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10178 Hi, Yes, try another doctor that can do lapband fills under fluoro and that could give you an idea on why isn't working. Hi,
Yes, try another doctor that can do lapband fills under fluoro and that could give you an idea on why isn’t working.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by lorieinala http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10177 lorieinala Sat, 14 Apr 2012 00:41:18 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10177 i am going to try another doctor in mobile...but i have wondered ever since it was placed and i had kidney stones which caused my vomiting excessively before the sutures healed if it was still in place...does it sound like it ...i mean i have had absolutley no results in a positive way at all since the beginning and no one in the doctors office seems to care..its all my fualt it didnt work i am going to try another doctor in mobile…but i have wondered ever since it was placed and i had kidney stones which caused my vomiting excessively before the sutures healed if it was still in place…does it sound like it …i mean i have had absolutley no results in a positive way at all since the beginning and no one in the doctors office seems to care..its all my fualt it didnt work

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-erosion/comment-page-3#comment-10176 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Fri, 13 Apr 2012 23:28:23 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=20#comment-10176 Hi Mary, You can have Barrett's with or without the lapband. You have to follow Barrett treatment with acid blockers, anti-reflux meds and also probably cauterization of the Barrets. The lapband should have 1/2 of the restriction while in treatment. Hi Mary,
You can have Barrett’s with or without the lapband.
You have to follow Barrett treatment with acid blockers, anti-reflux meds and also probably cauterization of the Barrets.
The lapband should have 1/2 of the restriction while in treatment.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion by mary http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-erosion/comment-page-3#comment-10174 mary Fri, 13 Apr 2012 21:58:04 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=20#comment-10174 I had a Lap Band in 2010 I love my band I haven't gain back any weight. I have lost about 114 pounds. But resently I started having chest pains they found Barretts in my esophygus. And said my band was loose and there was a inflamation above the band and a recent bleed below the band in my upper stomach. I don't want to loose my band am I endanger of that? I have a lot of chest and stomach pain. I also loose my food but that is my faultfor eating things I shouldn't and not chewing well. I had a Lap Band in 2010 I love my band I haven’t gain back any weight. I have lost about 114 pounds. But resently I started having chest pains they found Barretts in my esophygus. And said my band was loose and there was a inflamation above the band and a recent bleed below the band in my upper stomach. I don’t want to loose my band am I endanger of that? I have a lot of chest and stomach pain. I also loose my food but that is my faultfor eating things I shouldn’t and not chewing well.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10170 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Fri, 13 Apr 2012 04:18:49 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10170 Hello Lisa, You need a barium swallow for lapband evaluation and detecting possible complications. Some of the lapband slippages could give you halitosis. Hello Lisa,
You need a barium swallow for lapband evaluation and detecting possible complications. Some of the lapband slippages could give you halitosis.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10169 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Fri, 13 Apr 2012 04:16:04 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10169 Hello Loreinala, Using ultrasound to find the Lapband port do not talk very well about your doctor skill. I would suggest to have a check under fluoroscopy to evaluate properly your lapband status. Hello Loreinala,
Using ultrasound to find the Lapband port do not talk very well about your doctor skill.
I would suggest to have a check under fluoroscopy to evaluate properly your lapband status.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by lisa http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10167 lisa Fri, 13 Apr 2012 02:34:40 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10167 Oh my gosh imso scared I have had lapband since 06 have been throwing up for sometime I'm on omeprazole because I have a bad taste innmy mouth all the time do you think that isbecause. Of vomitting or erosion ive keeped about fiftypounds of but put about 30 back on I'm scared Oh my gosh imso scared I have had lapband since 06 have been throwing up for sometime I’m on omeprazole because I have a bad taste innmy mouth all the time do you think that isbecause. Of vomitting or erosion ive keeped about fiftypounds of but put about 30 back on I’m scared

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by lorieinala http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10163 lorieinala Thu, 12 Apr 2012 23:00:38 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10163 I was banded in october 2010, with a Lap-band AP system large with max fill fo 14cc...less than a week later i was hospitalized with kidneys stones...i was vomitting with the stones before going to the hospital(didnt know it was stones) i have had very little success with my band at all since then...i have had fills 3 to be exact with the last one being a large one according to my doctor. only the first one did he use ultrasound but he said only to find the port...anyway i have not had the feeling of full at all since the beginning..i lost weight (15 lbs)in the beginning because i was starving myself...the first fill was 9 wks post op and i had lost only 11 pds and then the second visit was only 4 pds. I quit going because i felt belittled because i had to drink when i ate or the food wouldnt go down it felt like it was getting stuck in the back of my throat. i had a hiatal hernia repair at the same time as the band insertion....i wont go back because i havent lost any more weight and i feel like they dont care...but lately i have been having pains in my abdomin and around my port...i think it slipped with all of the vomitting in the beginning...i am desperate to fix whatever is wrong with it. I am thinking of going to another doctor in mobile, mine isnt friendly and am not comfortable with him anymore... I was banded in october 2010, with a Lap-band AP system large with max fill fo 14cc…less than a week later i was hospitalized with kidneys stones…i was vomitting with the stones before going to the hospital(didnt know it was stones) i have had very little success with my band at all since then…i have had fills 3 to be exact with the last one being a large one according to my doctor. only the first one did he use ultrasound but he said only to find the port…anyway i have not had the feeling of full at all since the beginning..i lost weight (15 lbs)in the beginning because i was starving myself…the first fill was 9 wks post op and i had lost only 11 pds and then the second visit was only 4 pds. I quit going because i felt belittled because i had to drink when i ate or the food wouldnt go down it felt like it was getting stuck in the back of my throat. i had a hiatal hernia repair at the same time as the band insertion….i wont go back because i havent lost any more weight and i feel like they dont care…but lately i have been having pains in my abdomin and around my port…i think it slipped with all of the vomitting in the beginning…i am desperate to fix whatever is wrong with it. I am thinking of going to another doctor in mobile, mine isnt friendly and am not comfortable with him anymore…

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-erosion/comment-page-3#comment-10153 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Thu, 12 Apr 2012 01:29:19 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=20#comment-10153 Hello Dawn, I am sorry to know about your weight loss surgieries failures. There are endoscopic suture treatments for big pouches and also for closing the outlet of the bypass when they do not give you the proper restriction. I don't do it myself. What you called a new sleeve is the gastric plication and in cases that there is not too much scar tissue can be done over the pouch. Did you have your bypass done laparoscopic or as an open surgery? Hello Dawn,
I am sorry to know about your weight loss surgieries failures.
There are endoscopic suture treatments for big pouches and also for closing the outlet of the bypass when they do not give you the proper restriction. I don’t do it myself.
What you called a new sleeve is the gastric plication and in cases that there is not too much scar tissue can be done over the pouch. Did you have your bypass done laparoscopic or as an open surgery?

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion by Dawn L http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-erosion/comment-page-3#comment-10150 Dawn L Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:42:16 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=20#comment-10150 I had a Molina Band done in August 1995. I weighed 495lbs and lost 175 in a year. I never had any real issues besides the occasional vomiting due to over eating or consuming something too dry or not chewed well. I eventually started gaining the weight back and by 2004 I had gotten back up to 411lbs and consulted with a bariatric surgeon about the gastric bypass. He, of course, needed to do a scope to see what damage the existing band had done in my stomach and as suspected, it had erroded into my stomach and he couldn't completely remove it. He snipped and released it and did the bypass but unfortunately, he was not able to make the "pouch" as small as it was supposed to be. Therefore, I am able to eat more than I would be able to. I did lose weight...112lbs within a year but I was back up to 375 by September 2010. I have since been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and have been regulating it with meds and have lost weight. Right now I currently weigh 320lbs and I would love to consult with another surgeon to see if I would be eligible for the the new "sleeve". Has anyone gone through the same issues stemming from the Molina band and if so, is this a possibility after having two weight loss surgeries? I know that the Molina band probably saved my life at the time but both my parents had it done as well and have gained all their weight back plus some! Not to discredit the late Dr. Molina, but isn't ironic he passed away due to health issues caused by obesity. :-/ I had a Molina Band done in August 1995. I weighed 495lbs and lost 175 in a year. I never had any real issues besides the occasional vomiting due to over eating or consuming something too dry or not chewed well. I eventually started gaining the weight back and by 2004 I had gotten back up to 411lbs and consulted with a bariatric surgeon about the gastric bypass. He, of course, needed to do a scope to see what damage the existing band had done in my stomach and as suspected, it had erroded into my stomach and he couldn’t completely remove it. He snipped and released it and did the bypass but unfortunately, he was not able to make the “pouch” as small as it was supposed to be. Therefore, I am able to eat more than I would be able to. I did lose weight…112lbs within a year but I was back up to 375 by September 2010. I have since been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and have been regulating it with meds and have lost weight. Right now I currently weigh 320lbs and I would love to consult with another surgeon to see if I would be eligible for the the new “sleeve”. Has anyone gone through the same issues stemming from the Molina band and if so, is this a possibility after having two weight loss surgeries? I know that the Molina band probably saved my life at the time but both my parents had it done as well and have gained all their weight back plus some! Not to discredit the late Dr. Molina, but isn’t ironic he passed away due to health issues caused by obesity. :-/

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10147 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Wed, 11 Apr 2012 04:00:31 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10147 Hello, You should have a barium swallow and port re-location as soon as possible. The lapband surgery is still the first choice of surgery if you don't want to have a bigger operation to lose weight. You need to take Maalox e/4hrs and acid blockers while you get your test done before you need to run to the ER. Hello,
You should have a barium swallow and port re-location as soon as possible.
The lapband surgery is still the first choice of surgery if you don’t want to have a bigger operation to lose weight.
You need to take Maalox e/4hrs and acid blockers while you get your test done before you need to run to the ER.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by prncss72 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10144 prncss72 Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:04:12 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10144 Hello Doctor, I have had my lap band since 10/10/08. Since then I have had the port changed and repositioned due to it being flipped and then 3 months after that surgery the port flipped again. I have not had a revision and have not had a fill or unfill in a year. I had a 10cc band with 6.2 cc in it. For the last 3 months I have been having sharp pains in my band and until recently they would come and go. I also have been able to eat anything I want since the port revision with no restriction. I now have this pain all the time and am having trouble with solid food. I can eat yogurt, jello and can drink liquids but this causes pain also. The pain is like I have a rock in my stomach and hurts all the way into the port site and in my back. could this be erosion or a slippage? I have been reading that the surgery I had is no longer done because it causes erosion. The Doctor pulled the lower part of my stomach up over the band and stitched it there to prevent slippage. Thank you. Hello Doctor,
I have had my lap band since 10/10/08. Since then I have had the port changed and repositioned due to it being flipped and then 3 months after that surgery the port flipped again. I have not had a revision and have not had a fill or unfill in a year. I had a 10cc band with 6.2 cc in it. For the last 3 months I have been having sharp pains in my band and until recently they would come and go. I also have been able to eat anything I want since the port revision with no restriction. I now have this pain all the time and am having trouble with solid food. I can eat yogurt, jello and can drink liquids but this causes pain also. The pain is like I have a rock in my stomach and hurts all the way into the port site and in my back. could this be erosion or a slippage? I have been reading that the surgery I had is no longer done because it causes erosion. The Doctor pulled the lower part of my stomach up over the band and stitched it there to prevent slippage.
Thank you.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10139 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Tue, 10 Apr 2012 13:15:21 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10139 Hello Karla, The 4 cc Lapbands are the old version. I don't know why your doctor decided to place you an old model. I don't do it. Hello Karla,
The 4 cc Lapbands are the old version. I don’t know why your doctor decided to place you an old model. I don’t do it.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Karla http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10137 Karla Mon, 09 Apr 2012 23:55:39 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10137 Hi Dr i was reading all the comments and I was wondering I had one of the old lap bands that arent adjustable placed yrs back well i had that removed and the dr put a 10cm band which only holds 4cc? Why is that? Is it smaller than other people? Or was it because of my previous band? Hi Dr i was reading all the comments and I was wondering I had one of the old lap bands that arent adjustable placed yrs back well i had that removed and the dr put a 10cm band which only holds 4cc? Why is that? Is it smaller than other people? Or was it because of my previous band?

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10136 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Mon, 09 Apr 2012 23:01:19 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10136 Hello Yvette, 3.6 it is too little of a fill for having restriction after 4 years of been banded. I would suggest a barium swallow and be checked for slippage. Taking nausea meds are OK but antacids and acid blockers also is OK. Hello Yvette,
3.6 it is too little of a fill for having restriction after 4 years of been banded.
I would suggest a barium swallow and be checked for slippage.
Taking nausea meds are OK but antacids and acid blockers also is OK.

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10135 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Mon, 09 Apr 2012 22:57:26 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10135 Hello Belkis, I don't know what kind of a lapband you have but ports of Allergan or of J & J ,lapbands and realize band, when they flipped the treatment is just re-locate the same port unless there is an infection which the port needs to be removed while infection is there. Hello Belkis,
I don’t know what kind of a lapband you have but ports of Allergan or of J & J ,lapbands and realize band, when they flipped the treatment is just re-locate the same port unless there is an infection which the port needs to be removed while infection is there.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Yvett Prudencio http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10134 Yvett Prudencio Mon, 09 Apr 2012 21:44:55 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10134 I am sorry correction, Iwas banded Nov/2007 I am sorry correction, Iwas banded Nov/2007

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Yvett Prudencio http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10133 Yvett Prudencio Mon, 09 Apr 2012 21:42:46 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10133 Hello Doc- I was banded Nov/2011 and have the VG band holding 11cc's since my banding I have always had issues, my fills are either too much or not enough and once it even took me to the hospital due to a minor sillpage. I have been to my doctor's office 4 times since Nov 2011 to get my band filled or unfilled. I have spoken to them today (just got it unfilled to 3.6cc) about the options of getting a Sleeve or Gastic Bypass and although I am scared of having surgery again, I am just so fed up with my lap band and don't even want to get another fill. My question is, after my unfill today, I went from 6.6cc to 3.6cc, I am feeling nauseous and feel sick to my stomach. I can tolate liquids but wondering why I feel so yucky? I have taken prevecid, should I take nausea meds too? Please let me know. Thanks- yvette Hello Doc-

I was banded Nov/2011 and have the VG band holding 11cc’s since my banding I have always had issues, my fills are either too much or not enough and once it even took me to the hospital due to a minor sillpage. I have been to my doctor’s office 4 times since Nov 2011 to get my band filled or unfilled. I have spoken to them today (just got it unfilled to 3.6cc) about the options of getting a Sleeve or Gastic Bypass and although I am scared of having surgery again, I am just so fed up with my lap band and don’t even want to get another fill.
My question is, after my unfill today, I went from 6.6cc to 3.6cc, I am feeling nauseous and feel sick to my stomach. I can tolate liquids but wondering why I feel so yucky? I have taken prevecid, should I take nausea meds too? Please let me know.

Thanks-
yvette

]]> Comment on Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation by belkys santos http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lapband-erosion-clinical-radiological-and-endoscopic-correlation/comment-page-1#comment-10130 belkys santos Mon, 09 Apr 2012 20:19:40 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=36#comment-10130 Dr., I have my band surgery back in 08/2009, at the begining I lost a total of 50 pounds, the surgery happened in Dom. Rep., and I am now living at the USA, I been going to a lap band doctor in my area for the port fills, but unfortunatelly for past 6 months I starte having pain in my port, along with gain of weight about 30 pounds, today I just got a new lap band doctor scheduled me for a fluoro fill (I just got an endoscopy done few weeks ago and revealed that the band is sitting properly), but today under fluro my new doctor said he was not going to fill it as I need surgery to replace the port as same has flipped, he wants the records showing the specifications of my port (which is a Slimmer/Smaller made by Silimed 11.4mm as given by my overseas surgeon), the problem is that the new doctor is under the impression that surgeon whom performed the surgery was the doctor in the USA whom refered me to him, I know he would not touch me if he find out I got surgery overseas, so I let him believed the surgery was performed in USA, but know that he wants the specification of the port to order the exact one, I dont know what to do as I dont want to tell him that I lied and probably have him rejecting me (he is cover under my current insurance). I am very upset as I dont know what to do, can you please give me advise. Dr., I have my band surgery back in 08/2009, at the begining I lost a total of 50 pounds, the surgery happened in Dom. Rep., and I am now living at the USA, I been going to a lap band doctor in my area for the port fills, but unfortunatelly for past 6 months I starte having pain in my port, along with gain of weight about 30 pounds, today I just got a new lap band doctor scheduled me for a fluoro fill (I just got an endoscopy done few weeks ago and revealed that the band is sitting properly), but today under fluro my new doctor said he was not going to fill it as I need surgery to replace the port as same has flipped, he wants the records showing the specifications of my port (which is a Slimmer/Smaller made by Silimed 11.4mm as given by my overseas surgeon), the problem is that the new doctor is under the impression that surgeon whom performed the surgery was the doctor in the USA whom refered me to him, I know he would not touch me if he find out I got surgery overseas, so I let him believed the surgery was performed in USA, but know that he wants the specification of the port to order the exact one, I dont know what to do as I dont want to tell him that I lied and probably have him rejecting me (he is cover under my current insurance). I am very upset as I dont know what to do, can you please give me advise.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10129 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Mon, 09 Apr 2012 13:20:02 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10129 Hello Linda, Many times, comments of doctors on what to do next comes from personal experience and the ability or skills gained in laparoscopic surgery. Most of the times it is feasible to place a new lapband like in your case. There are patients that the surgeon can't do the procedure and it is better to go for the sleeve rather the gastric bypass. It is wise to research on your doctors experience, the time doing bariatric procedures, the doctor's preference choices for bariatric surgery, amount of patients he handle. Hope I answer your questions. Hello Linda,
Many times, comments of doctors on what to do next comes from personal experience and the ability or skills gained in laparoscopic surgery.
Most of the times it is feasible to place a new lapband like in your case. There are patients that the surgeon can’t do the procedure and it is better to go for the sleeve rather the gastric bypass.
It is wise to research on your doctors experience, the time doing bariatric procedures, the doctor’s preference choices for bariatric surgery, amount of patients he handle.
Hope I answer your questions.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Linda Lehrhaupt http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10127 Linda Lehrhaupt Mon, 09 Apr 2012 06:17:35 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10127 Dear Dr. Rodiguez, I had a Gastric band inserted in Dec. 1996.(I weighed 220 lbs at the time and was 5 ft. 6. in). I now weigh about 170 lbs.) Seven months later (July 2007), the band had to be replaced because there was a defect in the band (the manufacturer paid the costs). 6 weeks ago a barium swallow confirmed that the band has slipped. The chief surgeon wants me to have a sleeve resection. The assistant to the surgeon says I should have a gastric bypass. They are discouraging me from either having the band corrected or a new one inserted. They say the lap bands are not the treatment of choice any more at their hospital. I live in Germany. I had the surgery done in Belgium and self-payed at the time. In Germany now my surgery would be paid by the national health service. I am wondering how that influences their recommendations. Is the gastric band still being inserted because for many self-payers it is the most reasonable alternative for bariatric surgery. But are the other procedures more the gold standard and gastric bands the poor cousin. Truly, I would like to have the gastric band repositioned or a new one inserted, I am not yet ready to cut away a part of myself. I may have to go back to self-pay in Belgium because I am not sure they will do the procedure here in Germany. At the same time, I want to do the best medically for myself. I sense that I prefer a phased treatment (trying another lap band first, and if that doesn't work, considering sleeve resection. The doctor did mention that because I am 62 (in good health otherwise, I am also active), my age was a factor. For what, I am not quite sure. What would you suggest I do? Replacement or repositioning the lap band first. If it slips again, then Sleeve resection (on which there are no long-term studies). I'm not ready to do a Bypass. That I am sure about. Dear Dr. Rodiguez,

I had a Gastric band inserted in Dec. 1996.(I weighed 220 lbs at the time and was 5 ft. 6. in). I now weigh about 170 lbs.) Seven months later (July 2007), the band had to be replaced because there was a defect in the band (the manufacturer paid the costs).
6 weeks ago a barium swallow confirmed that the band has slipped. The chief surgeon wants me to have a sleeve resection. The assistant to the surgeon says I should have a gastric bypass. They are discouraging me from either having the band corrected or a new one inserted. They say the lap bands are not the treatment of choice any more at their hospital.

I live in Germany. I had the surgery done in Belgium and self-payed at the time. In Germany now my surgery would be paid by the national health service. I am wondering how that influences their recommendations. Is the gastric band still being inserted because for many self-payers it is the most reasonable alternative for bariatric surgery. But are the other procedures more the gold standard and gastric bands the poor cousin.

Truly, I would like to have the gastric band repositioned or a new one inserted, I am not yet ready to cut away a part of myself.
I may have to go back to self-pay in Belgium because I am not sure they will do the procedure here in Germany.
At the same time, I want to do the best medically for myself.
I sense that I prefer a phased treatment (trying another lap band first, and if that doesn’t work, considering sleeve resection.
The doctor did mention that because I am 62 (in good health otherwise, I am also active), my age was a factor. For what, I am not quite sure.

What would you suggest I do?
Replacement or repositioning the lap band first. If it slips again, then
Sleeve resection (on which there are no long-term studies).
I’m not ready to do a Bypass. That I am sure about.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10110 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Sat, 07 Apr 2012 12:03:27 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10110 Hello Debbie, You can eat soft food. You do not need to be in a puree food. Hello Debbie,
You can eat soft food. You do not need to be in a puree food.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by debbie http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10108 debbie Sat, 07 Apr 2012 09:28:05 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10108 Hi there Dr I am post op being in my 3rd week on puree food... I am so hungry and starting to eat more stronger foods but chewing and mashing up in my mouth I still have a few weeks to go until my 1st fill what should I do about the feeling of being hungry all the time thankyou. Hi there Dr I am post op being in my 3rd week on puree food… I am so hungry and starting to eat more stronger foods but chewing and mashing up in my mouth I still have a few weeks to go until my 1st fill what should I do about the feeling of being hungry all the time thankyou.

]]> Comment on Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-slippage-causes-and-prevention/comment-page-5#comment-10104 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Fri, 06 Apr 2012 23:46:49 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=259#comment-10104 Hello Ace3, You need a barium swallow to have your lapband checked. Hello Ace3,
You need a barium swallow to have your lapband checked.

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