Comments on: Lap Band Leaks: What You Should Know http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=lap-band-leaks Lapband, Gastric Bypass, Gastric Sleeve,Type 2 Diabetes, Weight loss Surgery, Obesity, Life after Lapband, Lapband Prices Sat, 04 Feb 2012 15:24:14 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.3 By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-8358 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Thu, 05 Jan 2012 01:53:47 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-8358 Hello Cassie, No, I have never seen one leaking without changing the saline color but any way you need to check for not losing the restriction you have now. Thank you for your comments about me. Happy New 2012. Hello Cassie,
No, I have never seen one leaking without changing the saline color but any way you need to check for not losing the restriction you have now.
Thank you for your comments about me. Happy New 2012.

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-8357 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Thu, 05 Jan 2012 01:51:04 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-8357 Hello Tonya, Lapband leaking usually comes from the port to the hose connection so it is easy to have it repair. If you are thinking in having it repair by us send an email to md@thebariatric.com Hello Tonya,
Lapband leaking usually comes from the port to the hose connection so it is easy to have it repair.
If you are thinking in having it repair by us send an email to md@thebariatric.com

]]> By: Cassie http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-8356 Cassie Wed, 04 Jan 2012 23:07:35 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-8356 Hello doctor! First thank you for all of your healthy and informative responses. I just went and got filled. When he pulled out the saline that was in my band there was 6 ccs... I have always thoguht that I was filled more - but I am human and may have mis-counted over the fast three years. My question is - have you ever seen a leak patient that had clear saline? Just double checking... Thank you again! Hello doctor! First thank you for all of your healthy and informative responses. I just went and got filled. When he pulled out the saline that was in my band there was 6 ccs… I have always thoguht that I was filled more – but I am human and may have mis-counted over the fast three years.

My question is – have you ever seen a leak patient that had clear saline? Just double checking… Thank you again!

]]> By: Tonya Leslie http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-8354 Tonya Leslie Wed, 04 Jan 2012 22:04:39 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-8354 My band is leaking so i need some help. I contact my other doctor but they call me back. My band is leaking so i need some help. I contact my other doctor but they call me back.

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-7400 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Sat, 26 Nov 2011 13:28:03 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-7400 Hello Cathie, Many patients do not get restriction a few days after having a lapband fill specifically the first ones. Shoulder pain is a "referral" pain, meaning that that pain is originated in the esophagus, stomach, gastro-esophageal junction or in its close vicinity. I do not like or promote the fills that are done in the office because we can't check and detect early lapband complications. Some pain medications and anti inflammatories can cause shoulder pain or hurt the stomach so you should check it with your doctor. I recommend you to tell your husband to have a lapband fill under fluoroscopy and to take Maalox and acid blockers. . Hello Cathie,
Many patients do not get restriction a few days after having a lapband fill specifically the first ones.
Shoulder pain is a “referral” pain, meaning that that pain is originated in the esophagus, stomach, gastro-esophageal junction or in its close vicinity.
I do not like or promote the fills that are done in the office because we can’t check and detect early lapband complications.
Some pain medications and anti inflammatories can cause shoulder pain or hurt the stomach so you should check it with your doctor.
I recommend you to tell your husband to have a lapband fill under fluoroscopy and to take Maalox and acid blockers.
.

]]> By: Cathie http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-7377 Cathie Sat, 26 Nov 2011 01:09:46 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-7377 My husband had the large Allergan band place on 10/14/2011 and the surgeon said that he was the most difficult patient he had ever done associated with the fat around his heart and lungs. He stated that he did not fill the band because of the expected edema. My husband is a Type I on a pump and this does not help the fat issue. With just the band in place he felt restriction, had the foamies and vomiting when he ate to fast X 1. He had his first fill on 11/15/2011. The NP stuck him 6 times, said he had 2.4 mls in and filled him to 3.5ml. After this fill he began to have severe intermittent shoulder pain in a particular place, it does not move but gets more severe when he eats, he does not feel the restriction he felt before the fill. I am wondering if the device may have come unlocked during the fill. His complaints are extremely specific. He actually took pain meds for the pain to his shoulder area. He did not take any post surgical pain medication and I am worried. My husband had the large Allergan band place on 10/14/2011 and the surgeon said that he was the most difficult patient he had ever done associated with the fat around his heart and lungs. He stated that he did not fill the band because of the expected edema. My husband is a Type I on a pump and this does not help the fat issue. With just the band in place he felt restriction, had the foamies and vomiting when he ate to fast X 1. He had his first fill on 11/15/2011. The NP stuck him 6 times, said he had 2.4 mls in and filled him to 3.5ml. After this fill he began to have severe intermittent shoulder pain in a particular place, it does not move but gets more severe when he eats, he does not feel the restriction he felt before the fill. I am wondering if the device may have come unlocked during the fill. His complaints are extremely specific. He actually took pain meds for the pain to his shoulder area. He did not take any post surgical pain medication and I am worried.

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-6978 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Wed, 16 Nov 2011 23:21:45 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-6978 Hello Claire, Most of the time leaking of a lapband is find at the port area in the connection with the hose. I would have my questions about when leaking at the balloon area because I saw just one case in my early days placing lapbands (17 years ago) that was a factory defect and they gave the new lapband. When the leak is at the port area it can just be fixed and patients pay for that. When leaking is at the balloon the lapband has to be change and the expenses have to be covered either by the insurance or the patient most of the time. Hello Claire,
Most of the time leaking of a lapband is find at the port area in the connection with the hose.
I would have my questions about when leaking at the balloon area because I saw just one case in my early days placing lapbands (17 years ago) that was a factory defect and they gave the new lapband.
When the leak is at the port area it can just be fixed and patients pay for that.
When leaking is at the balloon the lapband has to be change and the expenses have to be covered either by the insurance or the patient most of the time.

]]> By: Claire Sewell http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-6945 Claire Sewell Wed, 16 Nov 2011 14:40:53 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-6945 My friend had her band fitted in Feb 2011 she has just been told its leaking and she will have to pay again for another! is it normal practice to charge again in such a short period of time? thanks My friend had her band fitted in Feb 2011 she has just been told its leaking and she will have to pay again for another! is it normal practice to charge again in such a short period of time?
thanks

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-5959 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:35:21 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-5959 Hello Maggie, You don't need to worry about a Lapband Leak. You need top have another fill under fluoroscopy. Not all the patients get adjusted equal with the same amount of food even having the same lapband model. This is also influenced by the starting weight and the BMI. I just would go for another fill and then make a conclusion of what is happening. Hello Maggie,
You don’t need to worry about a Lapband Leak. You need top have another fill under fluoroscopy.
Not all the patients get adjusted equal with the same amount of food even having the same lapband model. This is also influenced by the starting weight and the BMI.
I just would go for another fill and then make a conclusion of what is happening.

]]> By: Maggie http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-5933 Maggie Mon, 31 Oct 2011 19:40:01 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-5933 I had the band in May 2011. I lost 30 lbs the first 2 months but once i really started on solids, the resistance subsided. Mid October had a barium test, it passed through very easily. they filled 2.5 ccs - up to 8.5 now. The first week had resistance, now I have very little resistance again (this happened with the first 2 fills also). i can eat anything except dry chicken and nuts which do take a little while to pass, but the sensation i get from these foods is what i expect from all foods. Could it be an undetected leak? Should I request another barium? Or, is it possible that my diet is causing the no resistance? According to others who have had this, they physically cannot eat even an entire half sandwhich; i can eat the entire sandwich with no issue. I am discouraged and would like some direction. much appreciated. thanks. I had the band in May 2011. I lost 30 lbs the first 2 months but once i really started on solids, the resistance subsided. Mid October had a barium test, it passed through very easily. they filled 2.5 ccs – up to 8.5 now. The first week had resistance, now I have very little resistance again (this happened with the first 2 fills also). i can eat anything except dry chicken and nuts which do take a little while to pass, but the sensation i get from these foods is what i expect from all foods. Could it be an undetected leak? Should I request another barium? Or, is it possible that my diet is causing the no resistance? According to others who have had this, they physically cannot eat even an entire half sandwhich; i can eat the entire sandwich with no issue. I am discouraged and would like some direction. much appreciated. thanks.

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-4720 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:21:22 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-4720 Hello Ghada, I removed all the fluid from the lapband when I see an enlarged lapband pouch. I wait 1 month at least after all the saline was removed from the lapband and I check again the pouch status, from there I decide which way to go. Hello Ghada,
I removed all the fluid from the lapband when I see an enlarged lapband pouch.
I wait 1 month at least after all the saline was removed from the lapband and I check again the pouch status, from there I decide which way to go.

]]> By: ghada http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-4716 ghada Thu, 29 Sep 2011 20:50:27 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-4716 I had a gastric band surgery 18 months ago . Recently i had a n x ray with contrast fluid and it showed that the pouch is larer than it used to be please advise what shall i do I had a gastric band surgery 18 months ago . Recently i had a n x ray with contrast fluid and it showed that the pouch is larer than it used to be please advise what shall i do

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-4494 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Sat, 17 Sep 2011 13:40:22 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-4494 Hello Jen, You can have a barium swallow with the lapband totally closed -100%- and should be a restriction during the test. If there is no restriction at all you have a lapband erosion. You can also be checked by an endoscopist to confirm the presence Lapband erosion. I do take any patient but I am located in Monterrey, Mexico. Hello Jen,
You can have a barium swallow with the lapband totally closed -100%- and should be a restriction during the test. If there is no restriction at all you have a lapband erosion.
You can also be checked by an endoscopist to confirm the presence Lapband erosion.
I do take any patient but I am located in Monterrey, Mexico.

]]> By: Jen http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-4490 Jen Sat, 17 Sep 2011 02:44:56 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-4490 Hi DR. I had lap band placed feb 2010 and have lost no weight. I have 9 cc fill. I have no restriction. I has an upper gi showing no restriction and a 13 mm barium tablet went past band area without even stopping. The radiologist told me something was definitely wrong. If the band is about 80% full, the average stoma opening would be 6.4 mm so a 13 mm tablet should not be able to pass freely. I can not get the surgeon to list tO my concerns even with an upper gi read of no restriction. I am now getting back and epigastric pain. I am frustrated and need guidance as to what to do next. I contacted another bariatric surgeon and was tOld that the surgeon doesn't take on other surgeons patients. Hi DR. I had lap band placed feb 2010 and have lost no weight. I have 9 cc fill. I have no restriction. I has an upper gi showing no restriction and a 13 mm barium tablet went past band area without even stopping. The radiologist told me something was definitely wrong. If the band is about 80% full, the average stoma opening would be 6.4 mm so a 13 mm tablet should not be able to pass freely. I can not get the surgeon to list tO my concerns even with an upper gi read of no restriction. I am now getting back and epigastric pain. I am frustrated and need guidance as to what to do next. I contacted another bariatric surgeon and was tOld that the surgeon doesn’t take on other surgeons patients.

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-4486 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:42:03 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-4486 Hello Cindy, The old ports of the old Inamed models gave problems to many lap banded patients. Re-locating the lapband port avoiding to be close to the rib will lower the probability of tubing breaking. The lapband should work as should be after fixing the port this way. Should be done laparoscopic since the tube is inside the abdominal cavity. Hello Cindy,
The old ports of the old Inamed models gave problems to many lap banded patients.
Re-locating the lapband port avoiding to be close to the rib will lower the probability of tubing breaking. The lapband should work as should be after fixing the port this way. Should be done laparoscopic since the tube is inside the abdominal cavity.

]]> By: Cindy H http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-4482 Cindy H Fri, 16 Sep 2011 02:02:03 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-4482 hello Dr: I had my lapband installed in 2005. I lost 100 lbs within a year and felt great. In 2008 I started gaining weight and found a leak in the tubing which was fixed laparsopically under general anenthesia. My surgeon advised that Inamed lapbands seemed to leak and have tubing issues. Just this week I began to have left flank and shoulder jabbing pain resulting in a visit to the local ER. Have been advised tubing broke and is floating around in the belly. It is assumed that the metal connector is jabbing me at times causing this pain which comes and goes upon position. Laying down and deep breathing seem to cause the deepest pain. Also seems to worsen after I eat. Waiting for insurance to decide to approve. Should I have the darn thing removed? This is the 2nd surgery to fix a tubing problem. Is this common, a surgeon error, a mfg defect? Thank you! hello Dr: I had my lapband installed in 2005. I lost 100 lbs within a year and felt great. In 2008 I started gaining weight and found a leak in the tubing which was fixed laparsopically under general anenthesia. My surgeon advised that Inamed lapbands seemed to leak and have tubing issues. Just this week I began to have left flank and shoulder jabbing pain resulting in a visit to the local ER. Have been advised tubing broke and is floating around in the belly. It is assumed that the metal connector is jabbing me at times causing this pain which comes and goes upon position. Laying down and deep breathing seem to cause the deepest pain. Also seems to worsen after I eat. Waiting for insurance to decide to approve. Should I have the darn thing removed? This is the 2nd surgery to fix a tubing problem. Is this common, a surgeon error, a mfg defect? Thank you!

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-4005 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Wed, 07 Sep 2011 18:16:23 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-4005 Hello Liz Rose, I hate to tell you that you had an old lapband model......Many times the leaking at the port area or close to it in the hose are not seen by doctors and nurses....There is not a "sweating" from the lapband system but leaks... Hello Liz Rose,
I hate to tell you that you had an old lapband model……Many times the leaking at the port area or close to it in the hose are not seen by doctors and nurses….There is not a “sweating” from the lapband system but leaks…

]]> By: liz rose http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-4001 liz rose Wed, 07 Sep 2011 16:09:22 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-4001 I was banded in Nov 2010, with a 4 cc band, allergan in Mexico. I have had 4 fills over the duration and have been very cautious not to overfill. Last time I went in for a fill I was very frustrated at the lack of restriction and the Dr pulled out the fluid and got less that 1cc out of the 3 fills. She used a dye to check for leaks and sd no leaks...but sometimes people "sweat out" the saline. She put in a "thicker" solution and it was wonderul restiction for about 2 months and has seemed to relax again. First off...have you ever heard of this sweating issue? and what are your thoughts on the fluid loss? should I see another dr? I have only had fills under flouroscopy. I was banded in Nov 2010, with a 4 cc band, allergan in Mexico. I have had 4 fills over the duration and have been very cautious not to overfill. Last time I went in for a fill I was very frustrated at the lack of restriction and the Dr pulled out the fluid and got less that 1cc out of the 3 fills. She used a dye to check for leaks and sd no leaks…but sometimes people “sweat out” the saline. She put in a “thicker” solution and it was wonderul restiction for about 2 months and has seemed to relax again. First off…have you ever heard of this sweating issue? and what are your thoughts on the fluid loss? should I see another dr? I have only had fills under flouroscopy.

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-3831 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Fri, 26 Aug 2011 03:17:05 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-3831 Hello Kerry, The lapband port could be kink but most frequent found is that the port is not actually located and the saline is injected into the fat. Hello Kerry,
The lapband port could be kink but most frequent found is that the port is not actually located and the saline is injected into the fat.

]]> By: Kerry http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-3830 Kerry Fri, 26 Aug 2011 02:40:13 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-3830 I was wondering what it means when your are attempting to get a fill and there is a lot of pain, like cramping for about 5 minutes afterwards and the band did not have any saline in it when pulling back. It possible to kink? I was wondering what it means when your are attempting to get a fill and there is a lot of pain, like cramping for about 5 minutes afterwards and the band did not have any saline in it when pulling back. It possible to kink?

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-3544 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Wed, 10 Aug 2011 04:10:05 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-3544 Hello Pamela, When the liquid is clear and the test inside the Lapband is negative there is not leaking. Some of the Lapband test are done without taking a very close look at the port area and that is what I do to detect leaking. It is very rare to have a leaking in the balloon area but unproper handling during surgery could be a cause of it and that lapband will need to be replaced. If the leaking is at the port area of the lapband system just fixing there will be enough. Hello Pamela,
When the liquid is clear and the test inside the Lapband is negative there is not leaking.
Some of the Lapband test are done without taking a very close look at the port area and that is what I do to detect leaking.
It is very rare to have a leaking in the balloon area but unproper handling during surgery could be a cause of it and that lapband will need to be replaced.
If the leaking is at the port area of the lapband system just fixing there will be enough.

]]> By: Pamela Nwanguma http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-3542 Pamela Nwanguma Tue, 09 Aug 2011 23:20:28 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-3542 I was banded about two years ago. I have never been totally restricted. When would go back for a fill, the PA will check the saline and it is always less than would was placed in the band. The liquid is clear. I am very frustrated because I have not lost any weight. A test was run over me to check for leakage but after the test, the results were not discussed. They just continued to give me fills that were not giving results. I am thinking about having a tummy tuck but my plastic surgeon told me to talk to my surgeon about the lap band problem first. What should I do? If this is a mechanical problem with the band, will I have to pay for replacement? I was banded about two years ago. I have never been totally restricted. When would go back for a fill, the PA will check the saline and it is always less than would was placed in the band. The liquid is clear. I am very frustrated because I have not lost any weight. A test was run over me to check for leakage but after the test, the results were not discussed. They just continued to give me fills that were not giving results. I am thinking about having a tummy tuck but my plastic surgeon told me to talk to my surgeon about the lap band problem first. What should I do? If this is a mechanical problem with the band, will I have to pay for replacement?

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-2922 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Sat, 25 Jun 2011 13:01:44 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2922 Hello, I do use local anesthesia + sedation for changing the lapband port. When the hose of the lapband is inside the abdominal cavity I do use general and the laparoscope. What is the problem with your port that need to be changed? Hello,
I do use local anesthesia + sedation for changing the lapband port.
When the hose of the lapband is inside the abdominal cavity I do use general and the laparoscope.
What is the problem with your port that need to be changed?

]]> By: swantime http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-2920 swantime Fri, 24 Jun 2011 20:52:35 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2920 does replacing the port require intubation and general anesthesia. is there some other way to change the port other than using general anesthesia/intubation does replacing the port require intubation and general anesthesia.
is there some other way to change the port other than using general anesthesia/intubation

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-2#comment-2865 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Sat, 11 Jun 2011 05:40:57 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2865 Hi Christy, Your Lapband is the firs model, old, old. But was working for you. You need to be checked under fluoro for leaking or erosion. Hi Christy,
Your Lapband is the firs model, old, old. But was working for you.
You need to be checked under fluoro for leaking or erosion.

]]> By: Christy http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2864 Christy Sat, 11 Jun 2011 00:03:13 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2864 Dr. Rodriguez, I must have an older model one because my band only holds like 4 cc's , I just went back to my fill doctor and the last time I was in she put in 3.6 cc's and she went to check it out and there was NOTHING!! So I am guessing I have a leak, I am so upset because before I had my gall bladder surgery everything was great, I was keeping my weight where I wanted it and now it is obviously holding nothing :( , I have gained weight and it is so depressing! I am not sure of anyone in the area that does the fluro fill, my doctor is in Mexico so I am thinking I may have to go back to him. The doctor that did my gall bladder surgery does lapbands as well but I am scared to go back to him in fear he nicked it and didn't say anything!! I hadn't had a fill since 2009 that's how well I was liking where my fill was and now this, I AM SO FRUSTRATED!! Dr. Rodriguez,
I must have an older model one because my band only holds like 4 cc’s , I just went back to my fill doctor and the last time I was in she put in 3.6 cc’s and she went to check it out and there was NOTHING!! So I am guessing I have a leak, I am so upset because before I had my gall bladder surgery everything was great, I was keeping my weight where I wanted it and now it is obviously holding nothing :( , I have gained weight and it is so depressing! I am not sure of anyone in the area that does the fluro fill, my doctor is in Mexico so I am thinking I may have to go back to him. The doctor that did my gall bladder surgery does lapbands as well but I am scared to go back to him in fear he nicked it and didn’t say anything!! I hadn’t had a fill since 2009 that’s how well I was liking where my fill was and now this, I AM SO FRUSTRATED!!

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2826 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Wed, 01 Jun 2011 16:38:02 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2826 Hello Jessica, Unless the knot is tight and is impossible to put in or to pull out the fluid from the lapband system I would do something. If the knot is tight, I disconnect de hose from the lapband port and then I unlock the knot laparoscopically. Hello Jessica,
Unless the knot is tight and is impossible to put in or to pull out the fluid from the lapband system I would do something.
If the knot is tight, I disconnect de hose from the lapband port and then I unlock the knot laparoscopically.

]]> By: jessica http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2823 jessica Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:39:21 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2823 I was banded in nov 2010 and had my gallbladder removed on 5/27/2011. The surgeon who took out my gallbladeer is also a lapband surgeon but not the one who did my lapband. Any case , while removing the gallbladder the surgeon noticed that my tube was tied in a knot. He took pictures and then removed the old tube and replaced it. I have never heard of this happening and am wondering how it happened and why it was necessary to redo it. I was banded in nov 2010 and had my gallbladder removed on 5/27/2011. The surgeon who took out my gallbladeer is also a lapband surgeon but not the one who did my lapband. Any case , while removing the gallbladder the surgeon noticed that my tube was tied in a knot. He took pictures and then removed the old tube and replaced it. I have never heard of this happening and am wondering how it happened and why it was necessary to redo it.

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2805 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Mon, 30 May 2011 04:09:34 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2805 Hello Christy, 3.7 was too little for a fill unless you have an old lapband model. How many cc you got this last time? Did you have your fill under fluoro? What kind of lapband do you have? Let me know. Hello Christy,
3.7 was too little for a fill unless you have an old lapband model.
How many cc you got this last time? Did you have your fill under fluoro? What kind of lapband do you have?
Let me know.

]]> By: Christy http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2804 Christy Mon, 30 May 2011 03:34:02 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2804 I had my band set right where I wanted it, it was recorded that I had 3.7 in my band, after I had my gall bladder removed I noticed I could eat anything I wanted!! I went back to my fill doctor, not the doctor that removed my gall bladder and there was NOTHING in my lapband!! She put saline in it and I went back and she seemed to get alot of bubbles and not as much fluid, I felt restricted when she put the fluid in but it eventually went away, when she put the saline in the pressure seemed to be very good, she was thinking the tube could be collapsing but I don't feel any restriction whatsoever, so what could be the problem, is it a leak? I had my band set right where I wanted it, it was recorded that I had 3.7 in my band, after I had my gall bladder removed I noticed I could eat anything I wanted!! I went back to my fill doctor, not the doctor that removed my gall bladder and there was NOTHING in my lapband!! She put saline in it and I went back and she seemed to get alot of bubbles and not as much fluid, I felt restricted when she put the fluid in but it eventually went away, when she put the saline in the pressure seemed to be very good, she was thinking the tube could be collapsing but I don’t feel any restriction whatsoever, so what could be the problem, is it a leak?

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2768 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Mon, 23 May 2011 18:07:24 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2768 Hello Kristy, It is very common to have discrepancies on the amount of fluid inside the lapband system after several lapband fills. As long as the fluid is clear the chances of leaking are less. The best way to be sure that there is not a leak is placing an absorbable dye into the lapband during a fluroscopic fill and to check in the port area where 95% of the leaks are found. Hello Kristy,
It is very common to have discrepancies on the amount of fluid inside the lapband system after several lapband fills.
As long as the fluid is clear the chances of leaking are less.
The best way to be sure that there is not a leak is placing an absorbable dye into the lapband during a fluroscopic fill and to check in the port area where 95% of the leaks are found.

]]> By: kristy http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2763 kristy Mon, 23 May 2011 08:31:26 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2763 hello I have had lap band for about 15 months now. In January I ended up in an interstate emergency room and had to get fluid taken out, the surgeon doing it was quite rough and it was quite painful. now when I get my band tightened up again there never seems to be as much in there as is expected, the last 2 times there has been a discrepancy of 1- 1.5 ml I am convinced there must be a leak, but the liquid is always clear, is this a definitive way of saying there is no leak, and if it is not leaking I wonder what is happening to the fluid that is supposed to be going in there. would it be because when the fluid is drawn into the syringe to be measured, and then put back in some is escaping around the needle in the port? Thankyou hello I have had lap band for about 15 months now. In January I ended up in an interstate emergency room and had to get fluid taken out, the surgeon doing it was quite rough and it was quite painful. now when I get my band tightened up again there never seems to be as much in there as is expected, the last 2 times there has been a discrepancy of 1- 1.5 ml
I am convinced there must be a leak, but the liquid is always clear, is this a definitive way of saying there is no leak, and if it is not leaking I wonder what is happening to the fluid that is supposed to be going in there. would it be because when the fluid is drawn into the syringe to be measured, and then put back in some is escaping around the needle in the port?
Thankyou

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2739 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Mon, 16 May 2011 16:40:51 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2739 Hello Holly, That is not the proper way to diagnose a lapband leak. At the X-rays your doctor has to access the port with a dye and look at specifically for the site of the lapband leak. Many of them are localized at the port area and they are not as expensive to fix as you are assuming. In case that the hose went inside the abdomen the cost raises due that to recover the lapband hose is done laparoscopically. Hello Holly,
That is not the proper way to diagnose a lapband leak.
At the X-rays your doctor has to access the port with a dye and look at specifically for the site of the lapband leak. Many of them are localized at the port area and they are not as expensive to fix as you are assuming.
In case that the hose went inside the abdomen the cost raises due that to recover the lapband hose is done laparoscopically.

]]> By: Holly Smith http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2736 Holly Smith Mon, 16 May 2011 12:24:05 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2736 Hi I had my band fitted November 2006, in Belgium (I'm in the UK). I had my last fill 2 years ago under xray and all seemed fine. I have since put a lot of weight on and lost restriction. I decided to get back on track and go for a fill last week, after 3 attempts to pull fluid back and only getting blood/blood coloured fluid they have decided I have a leak! I'm really upset as I have been quoted nearly the full cost of the original operation and they will check the location of the leak once I have been put to sleep! This scares me! Also is this something I can live with, without it being fixed? As at the moment I might have to! Many thanks! Hi
I had my band fitted November 2006, in Belgium (I’m in the UK). I had my last fill 2 years ago under xray and all seemed fine. I have since put a lot of weight on and lost restriction. I decided to get back on track and go for a fill last week, after 3 attempts to pull fluid back and only getting blood/blood coloured fluid they have decided I have a leak! I’m really upset as I have been quoted nearly the full cost of the original operation and they will check the location of the leak once I have been put to sleep! This scares me! Also is this something I can live with, without it being fixed? As at the moment I might have to! Many thanks!

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2695 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Tue, 03 May 2011 23:18:45 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2695 Hello Jackie, Sounds to me that you have some kind of bronchial spasm either caused by gastric reflux or allergy. It is OK not to feel full if you have not have any lapband fill. Hello Jackie,
Sounds to me that you have some kind of bronchial spasm either caused by gastric reflux or allergy.
It is OK not to feel full if you have not have any lapband fill.

]]> By: Jackie Arellano http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2693 Jackie Arellano Tue, 03 May 2011 11:47:12 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2693 I have had my lapband 4 months ago all is great. Question i had to take medication which was in pill form i cut it in half to take a smaller peice since I was on a cruise and couldnt get it changed to liquid form. After I swollowed it it seems to have gotten stock in my esophagus area. I was wheezing for about a hour as i kept drinking alot of water to get it down. After I just feel discomfort and it feels like when I breath theres a echo as if was a delayed breath. kind of funny but does that sound like there may have been a puncture in one of the sacks that hold the fluid..I have a appointment with my surgeon next week but it just feels funny. I do not really feel as full as i did so that is why Im thinking that. what are the reprections of that if it was punctured. Thanks, I have had my lapband 4 months ago all is great. Question i had to take medication which was in pill form i cut it in half to take a smaller peice since I was on a cruise and couldnt get it changed to liquid form. After I swollowed it it seems to have gotten stock in my esophagus area. I was wheezing for about a hour as i kept drinking alot of water to get it down. After I just feel discomfort and it feels like when I breath theres a echo as if was a delayed breath. kind of funny but does that sound like there may have been a puncture in one of the sacks that hold the fluid..I have a appointment with my surgeon next week but it just feels funny. I do not really feel as full as i did so that is why Im thinking that. what are the reprections of that if it was punctured.
Thanks,

]]> By: Donna LeMaster http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2554 Donna LeMaster Thu, 31 Mar 2011 14:30:41 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2554 Thank you, Dr. Rodriguez, for your response- I really appreciate it. My new Doctor is going to put me under a general and go in and explore. He said he will inject dye to see where the leak/leaks are so he will know what needs replacing; worst case scenario, I end up with a whole new bad. Keep me in your prayers! Thank you, Dr. Rodriguez, for your response- I really appreciate it. My new Doctor is going to put me under a general and go in and explore. He said he will inject dye to see where the leak/leaks are so he will know what needs replacing; worst case scenario, I end up with a whole new bad.

Keep me in your prayers!

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2549 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Wed, 30 Mar 2011 00:34:29 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2549 Hello Donna, I understand why you are so upset about. What I have posted on my blog is the experience of 17 years doing lapband surgeries. Without been pretentious, some new Doctors in lapband surgery should read some of my articles because are very informative and also to make easier the learning curve. I don't do any lapband fill without fluoroscopy and every time I get a different color in the saline fluid I check for leaks. Leaks can be at any level so some times just replacement of the port wont fix the leak. The level of the leak has to be detected before surgery to know what to do. There are no lapband companies that replace the device for free. Incase you need the lapband replace you will need to pay again. Thank you for sharing... Hello Donna,
I understand why you are so upset about.
What I have posted on my blog is the experience of 17 years doing lapband surgeries.
Without been pretentious, some new Doctors in lapband surgery should read some of my articles because are very informative and also to make easier the learning curve.
I don’t do any lapband fill without fluoroscopy and every time I get a different color in the saline fluid I check for leaks.
Leaks can be at any level so some times just replacement of the port wont fix the leak. The level of the leak has to be detected before surgery to know what to do.
There are no lapband companies that replace the device for free. Incase you need the lapband replace you will need to pay again.
Thank you for sharing…

]]> By: Donna LeMaster http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2548 Donna LeMaster Tue, 29 Mar 2011 23:49:56 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2548 Hi, Dr. Rodriguez! I'm sooooo upset right now!!!! I recently found out I have a leak. It has been a loooong hard road! I had surgery on 4/5/10 and have lost a whopping 25#! I have been seeing the same people this whole time. I found out the PA had known I was leaking since 2 fills BEFORE he decided to share it with me- so yeah, I was pretty upset. . .especially being constantly questioned about what I was eating, what exercise I was doing (monitoring my intake of calories and protein on fitday.com and working out 45 minutes a day 5 times a week) but it always seemed they tried to make it MY fault! Anyhow, he filled me up to 9cc's (I have a 10cc Lapband AP) and scheduled me TWO MONTHS out to come back in and have my port replaced. That's it. So, after a month, I call the office and ask to come in for a fill as I have NO restriction and a month to go still. I'm told they have nothing and I'll be put on a wait list. This was the straw that broke the camel's back for me! I have changed Doctor's and my new Dr. will have me in surgery in the next 2 weeks to fix this thing- THANK GOD!!!! So why am I so upset? This is why: reading your posts, you stated numerous times that the fluid being discolored is a good indication that there is a leak. . .I had two clear aspirations from my band immediately post surgery. . .after that, they were always yellow-tinged. When I asked the PA about it, he said it just happens sometimes. I trusted him. So, it seems that in the year I've had this thing in me, it's really only worked for about 2 months. Do you know what the requirements are for lapband to pay for replacement? I've looked at their site and haven't been able to find anything. Thank you very much, Dr. Rodriguez, for this site! Hi, Dr. Rodriguez!

I’m sooooo upset right now!!!! I recently found out I have a leak. It has been a loooong hard road! I had surgery on 4/5/10 and have lost a whopping 25#!

I have been seeing the same people this whole time. I found out the PA had known I was leaking since 2 fills BEFORE he decided to share it with me- so yeah, I was pretty upset. . .especially being constantly questioned about what I was eating, what exercise I was doing (monitoring my intake of calories and protein on fitday.com and working out 45 minutes a day 5 times a week) but it always seemed they tried to make it MY fault! Anyhow, he filled me up to 9cc’s (I have a 10cc Lapband AP) and scheduled me TWO MONTHS out to come back in and have my port replaced. That’s it. So, after a month, I call the office and ask to come in for a fill as I have NO restriction and a month to go still. I’m told they have nothing and I’ll be put on a wait list. This was the straw that broke the camel’s back for me!

I have changed Doctor’s and my new Dr. will have me in surgery in the next 2 weeks to fix this thing- THANK GOD!!!!

So why am I so upset? This is why: reading your posts, you stated numerous times that the fluid being discolored is a good indication that there is a leak. . .I had two clear aspirations from my band immediately post surgery. . .after that, they were always yellow-tinged. When I asked the PA about it, he said it just happens sometimes. I trusted him. So, it seems that in the year I’ve had this thing in me, it’s really only worked for about 2 months.

Do you know what the requirements are for lapband to pay for replacement? I’ve looked at their site and haven’t been able to find anything.

Thank you very much, Dr. Rodriguez, for this site!

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2547 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Tue, 29 Mar 2011 19:23:13 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2547 Hello Angie, You need to have the lapband fill done under fluoroscopy to have the proper fill and also, have the lapband system be checked for leaking. Hello Angie,
You need to have the lapband fill done under fluoroscopy to have the proper fill and also, have the lapband system be checked for leaking.

]]> By: angie http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2546 angie Tue, 29 Mar 2011 18:45:35 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2546 had a lap band fitted nov i get 1 or 2 weeks good then i have to have it filled again. i am on my 5 fill now is that right.iam having to pay every time now . had a lap band fitted nov i get 1 or 2 weeks good then i have to have it filled again. i am on my 5 fill now is that right.iam having to pay every time now .

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2526 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Wed, 23 Mar 2011 05:19:22 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2526 Hello Adrianna, Dark yellow color could mean that a drop of blood contaminated the saline. Also need to have the fill under fluoro to confirm the absence of leaking. The amount of fluid recovered can also be a hint to determine leaking existence, like when you get less fluid from the lapband as the one you've expected. Hello Adrianna,
Dark yellow color could mean that a drop of blood contaminated the saline.
Also need to have the fill under fluoro to confirm the absence of leaking.
The amount of fluid recovered can also be a hint to determine leaking existence, like when you get less fluid from the lapband as the one you’ve expected.

]]> By: Adrianna http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2524 Adrianna Tue, 22 Mar 2011 21:20:20 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2524 I just recentlyvisited my doctor to get a fill and she kept pulling out dark yellow color liquid. She told me that it could be liquid that had formed around the port. Is this normal? Then she poked me 7 times swearing that she was in the port. But could not pull out anything. Occasiopnally some dark colored liquid. She told me to come back in a few days because the port could be leaking. Is this colored liquid normal? I just recentlyvisited my doctor to get a fill and she kept pulling out dark yellow color liquid. She told me that it could be liquid that had formed around the port. Is this normal? Then she poked me 7 times swearing that she was in the port. But could not pull out anything. Occasiopnally some dark colored liquid. She told me to come back in a few days because the port could be leaking. Is this colored liquid normal?

]]> By: Dr. Arturo Rodriguez http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2195 Dr. Arturo Rodriguez Sun, 26 Dec 2010 00:29:04 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2195 Hello Judy, 15 days after any stomach surgery or lapband surgery your doctor has to ruled out the presence of an abscess. When abscess is not the cause and the pain increases with breathing the lapband hose could be placed to close in contact with the diaphragm giving you pain. Esophagitis is also a frequent cause of the pain you describe so avoiding coffee and irritants plus antacids helps this condition. Hello Judy,
15 days after any stomach surgery or lapband surgery your doctor has to ruled out the presence of an abscess.
When abscess is not the cause and the pain increases with breathing the lapband hose could be placed to close in contact with the diaphragm giving you pain.
Esophagitis is also a frequent cause of the pain you describe so avoiding coffee and irritants plus antacids helps this condition.

]]> By: judy http://arturorodriguezmd.com/lap-band-leaks/comment-page-1#comment-2193 judy Sat, 25 Dec 2010 03:49:08 +0000 http://arturorodriguezmd.com/?p=318#comment-2193 I had the lapband 2 weeks ago and have been back in the hospital for 2 nights since, I have so much pain in my left shoulder, the doctor said it may be because my cord is under my diaphram which causes a lot of pain, and when I lay down it hurts so bad to ove, I haven't had any fills yet, but I have lost 16 pounds already, how can I stop this pain? I had the lapband 2 weeks ago and have been back in the hospital for 2 nights since, I have so much pain in my left shoulder, the doctor said it may be because my cord is under my diaphram which causes a lot of pain, and when I lay down it hurts so bad to ove, I haven’t had any fills yet, but I have lost 16 pounds already, how can I stop this pain?

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