Arturo Rodriguez, MD

December 5, 2009

Life After Gastric Bypass Surgery

Filed under: Obesity, Obesity surgery, RYGB, Roux-n-Y, Weight loss surgery — Tags: , , , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 9:18 am

Life After Gastric Bypass Surgery

There are a number of important things to consider for patients after they have had Gastric Bypass Surgery. Take some time to read through the information and get informed if you are considering this procedure.

Diet

After having a gastric bypass, the modifications made to your gastrointestinal tract will require permanent changes in your eating habits that must be adhered to for successful weight loss.  Without these necessary changes, such as decreasing or limiting your intake of high-fat, high-sugar foods, you may stop losing weight or even begin to gain weight again.  Limiting high intakes of sugary foods is especially important to decrease the chance of Dumping Syndrome, where these foods move too quickly through the digestive tract into the intestine and can cause cramping, pain and discomfort, among other related symptoms.

Post-surgery dietary guidelines will vary by surgeon. You may hear of other patients who are given different guidelines following their gastric bypass surgery. It is important to remember that every surgeon does not perform the exact same weight loss surgery procedure and that the dietary guidelines will be different for each surgeon and each type of bariatric procedure.

What is most important is that you adhere strictly to your surgeon’s recommended guidelines. The following are some of the dietary guidelines I recommend after a gastric bypass:

  • During 4 weeks you will go on a liquid diet and advance in steps to a puree/baby food type diet for one or two additional weeks and transition to an almost normal (solid food) diet after that.
  • When you start eating solid food it is essential that you chew thoroughly.
  • You will not be able to eat steaks or other chunks of meat if they are not ground or chewed thoroughly.
  • Don’t drink fluids while eating. They will make you feel full before you have consumed enough food or they will flush down more food than you should be taking in.
  • Omit desserts and other items with sugar listed as one of the first three ingredients.
  • Omit carbonated drinks, high-calorie nutritional supplements, milk shakes, high-fat foods and foods with high fiber content.
  • Avoid alcohol.
  • Limit snacking between meals.

Going Back to Work

Your ability to resume pre-surgery levels of activity will vary according to your physical condition, the nature of the activity and the type of gastric bypass you had (open or laparoscopic). Many patients return to full pre-surgery levels of activity within six weeks of an open Gastric Bypass procedure. Patients who have had a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure may be able to return to these activities within a week.

Birth Control & Pregnancy

It is strongly advised that women of childbearing age use effective forms of birth control during the first 16 to 24 months after a gastric bypass surgery since the fertility increases during weight loss. The added demands pregnancy places on your body and the potential for fetal damage make this a most important requirement.

Long-Term Follow-Up

Although the short-term effects of weight loss surgery are well understood, there are still some questions to be answered about the long-term effects on nutrition and body systems. Nutritional deficiencies that occur over the course of many years are well known if you don’t take the recommended supplements. You will take supplements of Vitamins and Minerals (such as calcium and iron) for life and have a full blood work test done at least once every year.

Support Groups

The widespread use of support groups has provided weight loss surgery patients an excellent opportunity to discuss their various issues.  Most learn, from example, that weight loss surgery will not immediately resolve existing emotional issues or heal the years of damage that morbid obesity might have inflicted on their emotional well-being. Most surgeons have support groups in place to assist you with short-term and long-term questions and needs. I highly recommend enrolling into a support group.

Be cautious when turning to message boards as they are full of doctor’s coordinators or brokers more concerned with increasing business in their direction than providing support. You have to be aware of their presence and not allow them to manipulate you; they are only interested in gossiping or scaring you when you are only looking for the right answers.

Most bariatric surgeons who frequently perform weight loss surgery will tell you that ongoing post-surgical support helps produce the greatest level of success for their patients.

Arturo Rodríguez, MD

Bariatric Surgeon

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com

Originally posted 2008-10-26 07:45:58. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

November 28, 2009

CHEAP Lap Band or Gastric Sleeve Costs – What Does it All Mean?

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric Sleeve Mexico, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery, gastric sleeve — Tags: , , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 8:04 am

CHEAP Lap Band or Gastric Sleeve Costs – What Does it All Mean?

July 6 (Health Day News) — Soaring U.S. medical costs are causing many Americans to take to the skies on “medical tourism” junkets, looking for high-quality yet low-priced health care at foreign clinics but experts also warn that the booming industry does have some risks.

“My own advice would be to look carefully at the accreditation of the hospital and consider the nature of the procedure. Are you sure it is the procedure you need? And is it done well at the place you are going?” said Dr. Ann Marie Kimball, a Professor of Epidemiology and Health Services at the University of Washington School of Public Health, in Seattle.

Medical tourism isn’t without some concerns, of course. Experts in the United States worry that consumers might end up getting substandard care if they don’t choose their hospital and physician carefully.

“It may be difficult to assess the training and credentials of surgeons outside of the United States.”

The risk for complications with people seeking this kind of surgeries rise three folds in the past six months says “El Norte”, a big News Paper alerting the Mexican Health Regulatory System of a very dark business going on which involved American Citizens crossing the border for a Lap band Surgery or a Gastric Sleeve procedure under not very clear circumstances.

Getting deeper in their investigation, the news paper says that the only ones that get some benefit from this medical tourism are the very dishonest intermediaries and the promoters where they want to capture the vast majority of patients regardless the outcome, questioning the doctor’s medical capacity that are hired to perform these kind of surgeries in obese patients.

What kind of doctors would you get in Mexico to do the Lap band or the Gastric Sleeve for $500 hundred USD, and the Anesthesiologist for $150,? says Claudia who just had her surgery done.

Can you find good trained doctors with those prices they are offering you? Of course you don’t!! You have to realize that because you are going to Mexico, these are not the regular or normal Doctor’s fees.  GNP and other insurance companies paid $950 USD for appendix removal and obese procedures cost much more than that.

Ask yourself:  How can someone have such cheap prices for your surgery without sacrificing the quality and the service that you deserve?  The only way that someone can come out with such cheap prices is by not paying someone in the chain: You don’t pay for the hospital, the Lap band, the stapler or for the doctors fees. Or they are getting the medical products in the black market, or the medications are made in China.

Have you ever stopped to think ….The Lap band or the staplers are about $2000 USD. How do they get the figures with those prices? How much is the hospital? How much is the hotel, flight, internet or other advertizing they do? How much is the driver or the taxies?  How much are the medications during and after the lap band or the Gatric Sleeve?  How much is the anesthesiologist, the surgeon’s assistant and all related services like the follow-up you need in order to succeed?

Are you going to sacrifice your success or your health because of promos of a cheap procedure? This could cost you a lot more than that…Look around for stories with poor outcomes, they are all over the internet and many of the doctors have a very high reputation…. Don’t let yourself be treated as merchandise. At some point of the chain you won’t get what you deserve or what you are expecting.

Kimball’s advice: Look carefully at the accreditation of the hospital concerned and do your homework before you board the plane. “Check out the real number of surgeries done, the success rates, the years of working in obesity” Woodman added. It’s also a key to ask the surgeon you talk to if he or she will perform the operation, not an assistant.

Arturo Rodríguez, MD

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com

Originally posted 2008-09-16 21:12:58. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

November 21, 2009

Are you Talking about Several Lap Bands? The Hidden Story Behind the Lap Band…PART II

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Stomach erosion, Weight loss surgery — Tags: , , , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 7:12 am

Are You Talking About Several Lap Bands? The Hidden Story Behind the Lap Band…PART II

Since 2006, it has been reported world wide, that 200,000 Lap Band surgeries have been performed and that the Lap Band procedure is the fastest growing weight loss surgery in United States.  There are many different types and brands of lap bands available.  Take some time to read through the following details.

“Lap Band”

Inamed-Allergan Lap Band Models:

Lap Band Model 1: Lap Band 9.75 cm; maximum volume of 4 cc (high pressure balloon)

Lap Band Model 2: Lap Band 10 cm; maximum volume of 4 cc (high pressure balloon)

Lap Band Model 3: Lap band 11 cm; maximum volume of 9 cc (high pressure balloon)

These first 3 models of the Lap Band are almost out of the market or obtained for a very low price because of a high rate of complications such as slippage and de-banding.

Lap Band Model 4: Lap Band VG 11 cm; maximum volume of 10 cc (one inch without the low pressure balloon)

Lap Band Model 5: Lap Band AP 11 cm; maximum volume of 14 cc (360 degree low pressure balloon)

“Realize Band”

The Swedish Band was introduced in 1985.  As of 2007 in the United States, it’s now referred to as the Johnson & Johnson Realize Band, and is known as the Quick Close in Mexico. The changes made to the Realize Band and Quick Close have been to the fastening mechanism and to the port, but the length of the Lap Band or the balloon have not been altered.  Other Lap Bands available in the Latin and European markets are a lot less expensive, are not FDA approved and do not meet the minimum quality standards. By using these non FDA approved bands, the Lap Band procedure can be inadequate.

Why is the complication rate in the United States higher than in the rest of the World?

Facts:

Since June 5, 2001 the Gastric Band or Lap Band, as it is known in the United States, was FDA approved for use as an alternative for weight loss (small model). 

The only FDA approved Lap Band Model used for the first 3 years was the Inamed 9.75 cm (First out of five generations of the Lap Band).

In Mexico, this first Lap band Model hit the market in 1995.

The trials for getting the Inamed Lap Band approved by the FDA were done by surgeons with little experience in Lap Band technique and the very important Lap Band follow up and after care.

Many Bariatric Surgeons still have a poor conception of the Lap Band Procedure due to the inadequate results of the first trials.

The trials were performed with the short lap band model and without a comparative study with other Lap band devices, therefore the reports received from the Lap Band Centers, regardless of weight loss and complications, were collected incorrectly, falsely or insufficiently.

Inamed’s first three Lap Band models were short in length, very rigid and had a small high pressure balloon, resulting in more complications than the Swedish Lap Band.

The reports coming out of the United States indicate Lap Band slippage and erosion rates were higher in the USA vs. the rest of the world, because the only model used was the first Lap Band (9.75 cm).

In the end, we knew long before that poor quality and the rudimentary design of the Lap Band were responsible for the inadequate weight loss achieved and complications such as slippage and erosion because of the rigidity of the Lap Band, the small circumference and the high pressure balloon.

Promoters and brokers conceal this information to American patients traveling to Mexico for the Lap Band Surgery because they receive (and still receive) great deals and prices for selling the Lap Band (any model) across the border, resulting in high profits for them with no regard to the patient’s outcome.

 

Arturo Rodríguez, MD

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com

Originally posted 2008-10-11 08:04:24. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

November 14, 2009

My Life with the Lapband

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 6:07 am

Tricia

My Life with the Lapband

My Journey…

Boy how time flies! 

As I approach my 5th year Bandiversary, I started thinking how the Lapband has changed my life or how I had to change my life to live with the Lapband.

First off, I thank God every day for showing me there was an option and giving me the opportunity to have the Lapband procedure.

Like most in my situation, I tried every diet that always ended in failure. I almost got to the point where I wouldn’t want to diet because I KNEW I would gain the weight back and probably gain more. It was a horrible vicious cycle that I lived in for years.

Living with the Lapband was a continual learning process for a while. I tested foods to see what I could eat and what gave me difficulties. I tested out drinking with meals and not drinking with meals. Unfortunately, I had to learn the hard way on a lot of these issues, but the key is I learned and now the changes that I have made in living with the Lapband are part of my normal way of living. I don’t even think about it anymore.

One of the most frustrating things about the Lapband is obtaining proper restriction level. On one hand, I wish doctor’s would be a little more aggressive with the fill amounts, on the other hand, I think that working your way up to the proper restriction level is the way to go to avoid getting filled too tight which can be very uncomfortable and dangerous. I think that more discussion needs to be made about preparing one’s self for life after the lapband which includes the cost of adjustments/fills and the expectation of how many fills it may require to achieve proper restriction.

For self payers, many people use all their financial means to pay for the actual Lapband surgery and then don’t have the funds to get adjustments afterwards. This creates frustration because you just paid a lot of money and went through surgery and now want to lose the weight. Sounds reasonable……. But many feel like they wasted money when they don’t lose weight after the surgery or they feel like they can eat like they could before the surgery which is true until the band is adjusted properly.

So if someone is scheduled for lapband surgery and they ask me about the band, I make a point of preparing them for after surgery. I also try to tell them that their patience level will be tested to the max until they get their bands filled properly. I’ve heard this said by many and it’s so true “It took us a long time to become this overweight, we’re not going to lose it all overnight” It may take some time to lose weight with the Lapband, but with a little patience and following some very basic rules, you will lose weight and you will be successful.

Things that have changed for me after I was banded…

I don’t drink with meals. I found that this flushes food from my small upper pouch into my lower pouch which enables me to eat more food. This kind of defeats the band doesn’t it? I don’t want to eat more food, because this little thing called weight gain occurs if I do.  Not drinking with meals was probably the hardest thing for me to get used to, but now I don’t even think about it.

I still take small bites and have slowed down while eating. I found that taking smaller bites and slowing down while eating actually fills me up quicker. I also don’t look like I’m inhaling my food anymore, which was a very unattractive habit that I got into pre-band.

I listen to my band. It tells me when to stop eating. Oh, I’ve tried to argue with my band in the past and tell it that I could eat more even when it warned me that I have had enough, but for some reason the band was always right. I paid a small price for trying to fight the band. I would feel horrible until the food passed through the band. Sometimes I would PB (not pleasant) and learned very quickly that it’s just not worth fighting the band. It knows best, so now I listen to it.

I try to stick to protein foods first. I’m not always good at this, but it’s something that I feel is very important for Lapbanders. I have also found that when I eat protein foods first like chicken, fish, etc… then I don’t require as much food to feel full and I stay fuller longer. Not to mention the benefits to my health for eating protein.

Since I can’t eat as much as I used to, my food choices have changed. Before the band, I would eat horribly. It’s because I could eat a lot of anything I wanted. So if I wanted to snack on chips before dinner, no problem. I would still be hungry enough at dinner to eat it, and then have enough room for dessert after wards.

I now chose quality over quantity. I do this because I know I can’t eat a lot, so what I DO eat becomes very important. I have found that if I eat chips now, I will fill up on them, and I won’t feel hungry to eat what I should be eating. Then I end up feeling awful because “foods” like chips drain my energy if I try to use them as my source of nutrition. Don’t get me wrong, I still eat things like chips, but I make a point of not eating them when I’m hungry because I know that I will fill up on them and won’t eat what I need to be eating. So I will have junk food occasionally, but usually with my meal and have very little.

I don’t eat dinner late in the evening. I have a cut off time for dinner. I make sure that I don’t go to bed for about 3 hours after I eat. I also don’t drink a lot of fluids at night and I religiously take 2 Pepsid AC chewables before I go to bed. I believe that these things have decreased my chances of having acid reflux at night.

So yes, the Lapband has totally changed my life. With 155 pounds gone I’m feeling terrific! I feel that the minor things that I have changed in my life (with eating) due to the band are so minor and so worth it to help insure that I keep this weight off. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t struggle to keep the weight off, which is fantastic, but I believe that the minor changes that I have made have contributed to this.

The Lapband won’t do it all. You’ll need to help it some, but once your band is adjusted properly, the band will work for/with you instead of you working for the band.

Life is wonderful!Tricia before Lapband
Tricia after Lapband

Starting BMI 43

Current BMI 20

Tricia
Banded July 16th, 2004
Lost 155 pounds

Dr. Arturo Rodriguez

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com

Originally posted 2009-03-11 18:21:38. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

November 12, 2009

Lapband Surgery in Mexico…The Obvious Choice

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric Sleeve Mexico, Gastric band Procedure, J & J Band, Lap Band, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity surgery, Realize Band, Weight loss surgery — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 8:37 am

Lapband Surgery in Mexico…The Obvious Choice

With health care costs skyrocketing in the United States, more and more medical procedures are being performed abroad. Mexico is quickly becoming a very popular country for medical procedures especially for those people who do not have insurance.

Lap Band Surgery is a surgical procedure which helps extremely overweight people return to a more healthy weight. The Lap Band is a silicone ring which is placed between the new upper pouch and the lower part of the stomach. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 25 minutes. The Band is adjustable, reversible and requires no stapling, cutting or rerouting of the intestinal tract. The recovery time is usually 3-7 days and patients are given an extensive post op instruction manual which includes pain management, surgical site care and customized diet instructions. The Lap Band Surgery is also the only adjustable, reversible, surgical weight loss procedure that is approved by the FDA.

Lap Band Surgery is one of the many procedures being done more and more in Mexico. For people with no insurance, Mexico offers this medical procedure at a fraction of the cost of the United States. Lap Band Surgeons in Mexico have also been in the field of laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery far longer than American surgeons.

Weight loss can be a very sensitive subject so privacy is another reason many choose to have the Lap Band surgery done abroad. Once you’ve had the procedure you can rest and recuperate in an exotic atmosphere without friends or family members knowing about your procedure.

There have been over 400,000 Lap Band Surgeries performed worldwide. Mexico is one of the few countries that work with the patient to assure easy transportation in and out of the country and at many of the facilities there are packages which include transportation to and from the hospital and a two or three night stay at a nearby hotel for two. The follow up fill procedures can either be done in Mexico at the medical facility where the initial surgical procedure was performed or your surgeon will work with you to find a surgeon in your area that will work with you at a reasonable cost.

Another great benefit to having surgery abroad is the tax benefit. Medical expenses, including travel, are tax deductible so many people get a large portion of their out of pocket expense refunded to them at tax time.

The Bariatric Team

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com/

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

November 4, 2009

The success rate of Lap Band Surgery

Filed under: Bariatric diet, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, J & J Band, Lap Band, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Realize Band, Weight loss surgery — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 6:46 pm

The success rate of Lap Band Surgery

Lap band

Over 58 million Americans today or overweight or obese; this number increases everyday and now we are even seeing childhood obesity. Weight gain can be attributed to many different factors such as genetics, some medications, poor diet and lack of exercise. Fast food is often the answer for a quick meal and is often habit forming. By eating fast food, you are poisoning your system and allowing for extra fat to accumulate on your hips, buns, thighs, and stomach’s. Extra body fat is not only unattractive, but it is very harmful to our health. Many diseases are triggered because of extra body fat such as diabetes, hypertension, heart problems, and back and joint problems.

There are many different diets and diet products available to us that promise fast results in the safest possible way. Unfortunately these diets and pills do not work for most of us. There are however, other options such as surgery. One of these revolutionary surgeries is the Lap Band. Before you commit to getting surgery, you must meet a few qualifications and you must understand this as any other  surgery.

Qualifications

• You must be at least 18 years old.

• You must weigh at least twice your ideal body weight or 100 pounds more than your ideal body weight.

• You must be overweight for at least five years.

• You must have tried other serious weight loss attempts.

• These serious attempts only have had short term success.

• You must not be suffering any type of disease that may have caused your obesity.

• You must be willing to change your lifestyle greatly including eating habits and lifestyle.

• You must be willing to be monitored by a specialist.

• You cannot drink alcohol in excess.

If you meet all of these qualifications, you may be a suitable candidate for the lap band surgery.

 

What is the Lap Band?

The lap band only has a mortality rate of 0.2% and a 3% early complication rate. The lap band surgery starts by the doctor making four or five small incisions in your skin. The band is then placed around the upper part of the stomach, dividing it into two unequal parts. The upper part is your stomach and the band restricts your food intake and makes you feel full faster, in turn, that creates weight loss.

The Lap band is inflatable; saline solution is injected into the band system about six weeks after the Lap band has been placed and continues until the patient feels full after eating small amounts of food. The procedure lasts less than an hour and patients usually go home the next day. Recovery time is about seven days.

 

Success rate

The success rate really depends upon the person’s ability to change his or her lifestyle if they can stick to a certain diet. The most recent study shows that about 70 to 80% of people that have had the lap band surgery have successfully lost most of their unwanted body fat and have been able to keep it off for five years.

Only you and your doctor can decide if lap band surgery is for you. Research it thoroughly before you commit to having the surgery. It is one of the safest and most effective ways for morbidly obese patients to lose weight. Even those that did not lose all of their excess body fat experienced better mobility, higher self esteem and good overall health.

The bariatric Team

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

October 23, 2009

Lap Band Leaks: What You Should Know

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Revision Surgery, Weight loss surgery — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 4:31 pm

Lap Band Leaks: What You Should Know

A Lapband leak is suspected when a patient that previously had adequate restriction feels a change in the amount of restriction. This can happen suddenly or over a period of time, depending on the size of the leak. If there is a leak of the lap band, the band will not be able to be adequately filled and will not provide restriction, or function properly.  There are four types of lapband leaks that can occur to the lapband once it is placed, based on the location: (1) Leaks at the lapband balloon, (2) Leaks at the lapband tube connections, (3) Leaks at the body of the tube, and (4) Port membrane leaks.

(1) Leaks at the Lapband Balloon

Leaks in the lap band balloon can be unintentionally caused by needle punctures during surgery, or may occur over time in certain factory weak points of the balloon.

figure-101

Leak at Lapband balloon http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 1.0  In the figure above, you can see the lap band (white rectangular shape), which has been filled with contrast fluid.  The arrow points to a small amount of fluid that has moved outside the band from a small leak in the balloon of the lap band (VG).   

Lapband Leak

Lap-Band Leak http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 1.1 This is another image of a lap band balloon leak.  A thin line of contrast fluid can be seen outside of the lap band, surrounding both the band and the tube.

Lapband Leak

Lapband Leak http://www.thebariatric.com

 Figure 1.2 The lap band balloon can be seen in the centre of this image (rectangular shape, slanted to the left). In this case, there is a larger leak of contrast fluid which is more easily visible around the lap band balloon (arrow).

figure-13

Lapband leak seen during surgery http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 1.3 In this case, there was a leak in the lap band balloon, and surgery was required to remove the band.  During surgery, the leak was very clearly seen when fluid was pushed through the lap band, to reveal the location of the leak.  (The arrow points to the line of fluid leaking from the  AMI band). 

(2) Leaks at the Lapband Tube Connection

Leaks can occur within the Lapband tube connection if there is a break or fracture of the tube next to the metal connector. Breaks or fractures may be due to physical movement over time, when considering the materials of the connections (metal and silicone).   If the “fracture” is complete, it can be easily diagnosed with an x-ray film (plain film), without needing to inject contrast fluid. 

figure-20

Lapband plain x-ray film http://www.thebariatric.com

 Figure 2.0 Above, we can see the lapband port in the lower, right corner, with the tube extending to the left in the x-ray image.  There is a complete fracture (break) in the tube.  The distal end of the tube is near the port, which means the tube may still be in the abdominal wall.

Lapband leak

Lapband Leak http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 2.1 Above, we can see the lapband port near the bottom of the x-ray image, with a complete fracture (break) in the tube, which is curled up at the top of the image.  This shows that the tube is likely still inside the abdominal cavity.

figure-22

Port of a Lapband leak http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 2.2 Above is a photo of the lapband port that was removed during surgery from Figure 2.1. 

 If the “fracture” is incomplete, it is necessary to inject contrast inside the system in order to diagnosis the problem.

figure-23

Figure 2.3 This shows an incomplete fracture, with the tube in place.

figure-24

Port of a Lapband leak http://www.thebariatric.com

 

Figure 2.4 This is the port removed from the above case (Figure 2.3).

l

Port of a Lapband leak http://www.thebariatric.com

 Figure 2.5 In this plain x-ray film, the port can be seen in the bottom right corner. There is a slight bend in the tube at the connection point (upper right corner of the film).

lapband leak

 Figure 2.6  As a leak was suspected, contrast fluid was passed through this lapband port.  A large amount of contrast fluid is seen at the bend, in the top right (the connection point).

In some cases, it is not possible to indentify a leak with x-rays. Therefore, the diagnosis of a leak may need to be done at the time of surgery.

Lapband leak

Lap-Band Leak http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 2.7 In this x-ray with contrast fluid, there is no evidence of a leak.

Tube leak near the port

Tube leak near the port http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 2.8 This leak was not demonstrated with x-rays.  As the leak was suspected, surgery was required to find the location of the leak.

(3) Leaks at the Body of the Tube

These lap band leaks are usually iatrogenic. This means that the leak was caused by an unintentional needle puncture, during a fill that was done without using fluoroscopy to guide the needle. These kinds of leaks are very common in office fills. Even in the best hands, there is always a risk of puncturing the tube during a lap band adjustment. This is one of the reasons that we always recommend fills to be done under fluoroscopy.

Lapband tube puncture

Lapband tube puncture http://www.thebariatric.com

  Figure 3.0  A leak can be seen in the body of the tube, close to the connection. This leak was made with a needle at the time of an adjustment (office fill).

Lapband tube puncture

Lap-band Tube puncture http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 3.1  The leaking portion of the tube was removed during surgery.

(4) Port Membrane Leaks

This type of leak usually occurs when the patient has received many fills, or when the adjustment was done using a standard needle. Only Huber (non-coring) needles (Figure 4.2) should be used to perform fills or adjustments.  The silicone membrane of the port may be damaged if any other type of needle is used.

figure-40

Lap-band Port Leak http://www.thebariatric.com


      Figure 4.0 The lapband leak is just in front of the port, where contrast can be seen.     

Port Membrane Leak

Lap-band Port Membrane Leak http://www.thebariatric.com

Huber Needle

Huber Needle http://www.thebariatric.com

 Figure 4.1 During surgery, we can see a leak at the port membrane as seen by the bubbles that are produced when the port is placed in water.                                

Figure 4.2 Huber (non-coring) needle.

Final Thoughts

Every day, the lap band manufacturers are improving the design and functionality of the gastric bands in order to prevent complications such as leaks. However, there is always a small risk of leaks over time. Many types of lap band leaks can be avoided by careful handelling the gastric band at the time of the surgery and by doing the lap band fill or adjustment under the fluoroscopy guide, and finally by using the right non-core  needle. 

Arturo Rodriguez, MD
Bariatric Surgeon
Susana González, MD
Radiologist
http://www.thebariatric.com

Originally posted 2009-03-07 23:31:38. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

Lap Band, Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass? That is the Question!

Filed under: Bariatric diet, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric Sleeve Mexico, Gastric band Procedure, J & J Band, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, RYGB, Realize Band, Roux-n-Y, Weight loss surgery, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 4:31 pm

Lap Band, Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass? That is the Question!

The Bariatric surgical field has experienced extraordinary changes over the past 55 years.

With the initial empiric use of Intestinal Bypass surgery in 1954 by Kremen, Linner and Nelson at the University of Minnesota, severe obesity was identified as a disease that could be successfully treated.

Today, the acceptance of Bariatric Surgery is a proven surgical discipline.  It hasn’t always been that way, and has gone through a long bumpy road in a very hostile environment.  It has gone from acid critics and nonbelievers to a great demand of this kind of surgery all over the world.

The increase of obesity over the past 50 years has doubled or tripled in some countries.

One third of the population in the United States is obese (23 million) and patients seeking surgical treatment are becoming heavier each year.

The increase in weight has occurred in men, women and children of all ages.

The need of healthcare due to co-morbidities, is also rapidly escalating, which has greatly affected the public healthcare system and in the economy.

Some of the initial procedures have been abandoned because of serious complications. We have learned from these procedures what not to do, what to avoid and how to do it better.

Over the years, we have also learned about many different surgical techniques.  We have learned it’s short and long term complications, the procedures that gave poor results and the procedures that have produced good results.  We continue to be properly trained for new techniques and new procedures, how to be involved in the designs of instruments and devices and to make the surgery easier.   To help improve results of Bariatric Surgery, we learn how to apply new technology to our procedures like using the laparoscopic towers to decrease mortality, pulmonary insufficiency, operative time, hospital stay and pain.

Now we offer several procedures in which obesity would be prevented or cured by surgical means with similar long term results.

After all, we are facing 2 main problems now with so many patients that had a Bariatric Procedure and a lot of others seeking help: What would be the best Surgical Treatment to be offered to the patient?  And, how can we give the best Follow-Up care to make them succeed and avoid complications?

At where we stand now, we cannot say that one Bariatric Procedure over the others will always work for everyone. We have to recommend the best procedure for the patient.   Sitting down and talking with the patient is imperative to make the right choice for them.  We need to see what he understands and knows about different Weight Loss Procedures.  We need to get to know his habits and his environment.  We need to know what co-morbidities he has, know his fears, and most important, the commitment and the desire of making changes to his life.

Restrictive procedures like the Lap band and the Gastric Sleeve have lower operatory and long term complications.  These procedures are also less expensive than the Gastric Bypass and the Duodenal Switch but need a lot more commitment from the patient to follow diet restrictions and exercise to succeed.

It is well know that complex procedures such as Gastric Bypass and Duodenal Switch gives patients the desired weight loss during the first year, but causes unwanted Malabsorption.   Even if the procedure has failed and  the patient gains the weight back, he will have long term unwanted complications such as metabolic bone diseases which include Osteoporosis (from poor calcium absorption), Osteomalacia (from vitamin D deficiency),  Osteopenia and Osteitis Fibrosa Cystica (from Secondary Hyperparathyroidism due to low serum calcium). 

These diseases require long term, close follow-up care to prevent complications.  Our offices are sometimes not capable of providing follow-up care for different reasons. Many times the patient is unable to remember who performed his surgery or they have relocated.

Surgical goals should offer a lifetime decrease in Medical Healthcare.  Not only to offer the treatment for obesity and the actual problems that obesity creates, but to have a Follow-up System established for 15 to 20 years later.

Arturo Rodriguez, MD

Tricia Lackey

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com/

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

October 17, 2009

Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric Sleeve Mexico, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Revision Surgery, Weight loss surgery, gastric sleeve — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 2:21 am

Lapband Slippage: Causes & Prevention

A Clinical Study

A clinical study was done in Germany to review complications following lap band surgery. Thirty-five hospitals were involved in the study, with 4138 patients that underwent gastric banding over a five-year period.  Lap Band long-term complications were described in 8.6%  of all patients.  The most common complications included: pouch dilation or enlargement (5.0%), lap band slippage (2.6%), and Lapband migration or erosion (1.0%).   (Stroh,C  Manger, T “Complications after adjustable gastric banding”, Chirurg, 2006, Vol 77,pag 244-250)

Normal Lapband x-ray

 Normal Lap Band X-Ray Under Fluoroscopy

lapband-enlarged-pouch

  Enlarged Lap Band Pouch    

What is Lap Band Slippage?

One of the long-term complications of lap band surgery is called “Lapband slippage” and can be defined as “when the Lapband and the stomach pouch are both prolapsed.”  This means that the lap band has shifted position and the enlarged stomach pouch has also shifted or twisted so that food does not go through the lapband into the rest of the stomach. This may result in pain, discomfort, decreased appetite and inability to eat or drink, and vomiting. Lapband Slippage does not happen immediately but may take several months to develop. 

Huge-lapband-pouch

Large Lap Band Pouch

Lap Band Slippage generally develops in a progressive manner. As food intake is increased, the stomach begins to stretch and grow and the patient may stop losing weight or start to regain weight.  At this point, patients may only exhibit an enlarged stomach Lap band pouch.  This can be medically treated by deflating the lap band to release pressure and slow the growth of the pouch (successful in 70% of cases, or surgical treatment can be considered). However, if the enlarged lapband pouch continues to grow, the lapband progressively rotates until both the lap band and the enlarged pouch become prolapsed, resulting in Lap band slippage.  This is followed by functional stenosis (narrowing) of the stomach.  

lapband-slippage

 Lap Band Slippage

Lapband Slippage Symptoms typically include progressively worsening reflux, vomiting and epigastric complaints, which may increase to sudden near-total dysphagia (inability to swallow or eat anything, including saliva).

Risk factors or causes of lap band slippage include surgical technique, model of the  lapband used, early consumption of solid foods, early inflation or filling of the band, consumption of carbonated or sparkling beverages, and frequent vomiting.

Treatment for lap band slippage requires surgical intervention. The lapband must be repositioned or removed, based on the operative findings and condition of the stomach pouch. If appropriate, the surgeon and patient may elect to choose another type of bariatric procedure such as a Gastric Sleeve. 

How Do I Prevent Lap Band Slippage?

In order to decrease the risk of developing lap band slippage, it is important to follow the recommended diet following surgery and to avoid introducing solid foods too early.  In addition, the fills should not be started before 6 weeks post-operatively and these Lap band fills should be very gradual.  We also recommend that fills should be done under fluoroscopy, even if you are asymptomatic (no symptoms of lap band slippage), to be able to monitor the position of the lapband, and the size of the stomach pouch and condition of the esophagus. This will allow for early diagnosis of an enlarged stomach pouch or possible lap band slippage.

Susana González, MD

Radiologist

http://www.thebariatric.com

Originally posted 2009-02-17 13:25:15. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

October 7, 2009

z6pydifst3

Filed under: Lapband procedure — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 9:50 am

z6pydifst3

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

October 2, 2009

Successful Weight Loss with Lap Band Surgery

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery — Tags: , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 10:24 pm

Successful Weight Loss with Lap Band Surgery

Lap band surgeries are a type of restrictive procedure through which an inflatable band is surgically placed around the upper portions of the stomach, creating a small stomach pouch. This small pouch works to restrict the amount of food that can be eaten at any given time while increasing the amount of time it takes the stomach to completely empty itself. Many patients have reported successful weight loss with lapband surgery and outpatient nutritional counseling.

As a result of the lapband surgery, the patient will achieve a sustainable decrease in weight by slower digestion, reduced appetite, and limited food intake. This type of surgery is less traumatic than other types like the gastric bypass procedure. Unlike other permanent solutions to obesity, it is safe, adjustable, and reversible. The lap band provides a unique method for maintaining and achieving significant weight loss, enhancing the quality of your life, and improving your health.

During the lap band procedure, your surgeon will make a few tiny incisions into the wall of your abdomen. Using the latest laparoscopic technologies, a small adjustable silicone band is inserted and secured around the upper portions of the stomach. This lapband is then connected to specialized tubing which is then attached to an access port, which is located beneath the surface of the skin on the abdomen. This port is not visible to the naked eye, and allows the patient to make adjustments to the band as necessary.

The small pouch at the top of the stomach controls the amount of food that can be taken in at any given time. A small amount is permitted to pass through the lap band, thereby delaying the total emptying of the stomach. This process causes a sensation of fullness much sooner than normal. Eventually and over a course of time, hunger sensations decrease dramatically.

There are many advantages to lap band surgery as a method of treating obesity. Of all gastric surgery methods, lapband surgery has the lowest mortality rate. It is the least invasive surgical approach to weight loss as well. There is no stomach cutting, stapling, or intestinal re-routing. The lap band is reversible, adjustable, carries a low malnutrition risk, and has the lowest rate for operative complications among all similar procedures like gastric sleeve or gastric bypass.

Most patients that elect to have lap band surgery will not have to be hospitalized. In fact, the majority of all lap band patients go home the same day of their surgery. Normal activity can be resumed in as little as one week, while full recovery from lapband surgery takes about two to three weeks.

The Bariatric Team

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com

Originally posted 2009-02-02 12:30:05. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

September 25, 2009

Have Lap Band Surgery for Less in Mexico

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric Sleeve Mexico, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Plastic surgery after weight loss, RYGB, Roux-n-Y, Weight loss surgery, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve — Tags: , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 9:41 pm

Have Lap Band Surgery for Less in Mexico

Mexico has become the best location to obtain surgical operations for less money, especially in the areas of weight loss and plastic surgery. You can have lap band surgery for less in Mexico, yet still enjoy the same level of professionalism, technology, after-surgery care, and state-of-the-art medical facilities.

The Mexicans have developed numerous reputable medical schools in recent years, such as the University of Monterrey, and some of the best Mexican hospitals are located nearby with exceptionally skilled physicians and surgeons. Many American medical students have also obtained their education from this University. In addition to gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgeries, one of the most common and widely available surgeries in Mexico is the Lapband procedure.

Lapband surgery is also known as gastric band surgery. It is minimally invasive, especially when compared to other types of obesity control methods. The surgery is much safer as well. When comparing the price of this surgery between the United States and Mexico, patients can receive the exact same Lap band procedure in Mexico for up to 70% less than in the states. Despite the lower price, patients are advised to avoid the cheapest clinics.

Blindly placing trust in the least expensive location is not the best idea. Patients should expect to pay somewhere between $7,000 and $12,000 for the lap band or gastric bypass procedure. Avoid going to clinics that quote an extremely low Lapband price. Often, the reason for the deeply discounted price is due to a lack of business, poor reputations, a lack of proper facilities, or a lack of qualified personnel.

Choosing where you will obtain your lap band surgery is a very important decision. Certainly, you can have lapband surgery for less in Mexico, yet you must still make an informed, educated choice between hospitals, clinics and doctors. It is always the best choice to choose full-fledged hospitals for any surgical procedure in Mexico, primarily because they have all the necessary medical equipment and emergency surgical backup if any complications should arise. Good hospitals, such as Christus Health, will have major facilities such as blood banks, XRAY, MRI, and ICU centers. Some of these same hospitals will also have boarding facilities in which patients can stay along with a friend or relative. Finally, large hospitals will also have staff who speak English fluently, which is an important factor when considering a surgical procedure in another country. You need to be able to communicate your desires, your feelings, your pain, and your concerns to your physician or surgeon.

Christus Hopsital Http://www.thebariatric.com

 

The Bariatric Team

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com

Originally posted 2009-01-24 22:29:40. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

September 22, 2009

My Surgery Story–De-Banding and Gastric Sleeve

Filed under: Bariatric diet, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric Sleeve Mexico, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Realize Band, Revision Surgery, Weight loss surgery, gastric sleeve — Tags: , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 9:17 pm

Subject: My surgery story -  de-banding and gastric sleeve   21/08/09

Gastric Sleeve

Gastric Sleeve

 

 

 
I just got back from Mexico, where Dr. Arturo Rodriguez performed the gastric sleeve surgery for me. (Warning… long post coming up!)Four years ago tomorrow, I had the Lap-Band surgery with Dr. Rodriguez.For a variety of reasons, the band didn’t work for me. I did manage to lose

about 40 pounds with the Lap-Band surgery, so the surgery was not

a failure, but I never did get good restriction. It seemed like I ran into

roadblock after roadblock, and I had a heck of a time trying to get good

follow up care in my community. My life changed over the past 4 years,

making it impossible for me to travel and be away from home to do fills,

so follow up care in Mexico wasn’t an option for me. I recently became

a midwife, attending women at homebirths, so taking time away from my

clients is not something I can do easily. Finally, a couple of months ago,

I decided to have my band removed and have the gastric sleeve done.

My best friend and I traveled to Mexico together and, of course, received

top quality service from Dr. Rodriguez and his staff. Once we got to the

hotel, we had a quick meal and a few margaritas before I had to begin my

pre-operative fast.

The next morning, the driver picked us up at the hotel and took us to Hospital

San Pedro. I had been there before for my Lap-Band surgery and my port

relocation surgery, so it was a familiar place for me. Shortly after I arrived,

the nurses took me back for my IV, weight check, vitals, labs, etc. Oh, and

by the way, since I work in the medical field, I took great note of their attention

to cleanliness and clean technique — no worries there (in case anyone

wonders about that). After the nurses were done, the anesthesiologist came

to visit me, as did Dr. Rodriguez. Next, I was wheeled into the operating room.

I got on the operating table, and the anesthesiologist put a mask over me.

The next thing I remember is waking up in recovery afterwards. I was SORE

and groggy, and I thought, “what have I done???”

Dr. Rodriguez had to work really hard on me during my surgery. De-banding

is not an easy task, and there were a lot of adhesions he had to remove. Also,

since I was previously banded, Dr. Rodriguez was very careful to make sure I

didn’t have any erosion, which could have caused life-threatening complications.

He also took extra care to be sure that the staple line in my stomach was

reinforced by sutures, and shot blue dye through my stomach to be sure

that there were no leaks. I am so thankful for Dr. Rodriguez’s skill as a surgeon.

I have trusted him with my life twice now, and I truly believe he is an outstanding

doctor. I would recommend him to anyone considering gastric surgery.

HE IS THE BEST!!!

Dr. Rodriguez had arranged for my friend and me to stay at the big suite at San

Pedro, which, by the way, happens to be a birthing room where they do

water births — my kind of place! The room had two hospital beds, two sofas,

several chairs, a kitchen, and a bathroom. It was extremely comfortable and lovely.

I am so thankful to Dr. Rodriguez for arranging for us to stay there!!!

OK, I’m being totally honest… the first day was hell. My throat was sore from

the tube being in there during the surgery. I threw up several times, was in pain,

and was really worried that I had made a bad decision. My back and arms

hurt a lot from being on the surgical table. I could barely move. Every movement

felt like torture. The pain meds gave me a horrible headache.

Second day was better, but it was still rough. I was throwing up less often and

was drinking sips of water. Still very sore, but doing better. On the third day,

Dr. Rodriguez was concerned about my difficulties with drinking, so he arranged

for me to have a barium swallow to make sure there wasn’t an obstruction.

Everything checked out OK, so he sent me to the hotel to recuperate. Day 4 was

spent just sipping water and Riopan, and there was no more throwing up. Late

that day, Dr. Rodriguez met us at the hospital to have my drain removed. THAT

was a really weird feeling! Once the drain was out, my soreness improved greatly.

One thing I found REALLY helpful in getting liquids down was I got some honey

straws. I discovered by accident that these work really well. If you have trouble

getting liquids down, it helps to just swallow, swallow, swallow until it moves down.

Well, with the honey straws, you have to work really hard to suck the honey out,

and that action, combined with the swallowing of the little bits of honey, works really

well in propelling the food downward. If you’re getting gastric sleeve surgery,

I suggest picking up a box of these to take with you to Mexico. My friend found

some at the plaza in Monterrey, but I’ve seen them at Target in the tea section

here in the US.

Day 5, we left the hotel and headed home. My advice to anyone traveling after

this procedure – GET A WHEELCHAIR! If you have a wheelchair, you will breeze

through customs and security and life will be a whole lot easier for you.

I’ve been home now for three days and I feel much better. I am able to drink about

60 ounces of water a day now, which is about half of what I used to drink, but it is

improving daily. I am not as sore as I was, but I’m still hurting a bit. My surgical

wounds are healing nicely, and I’m starting to feel more “normal” again. I’ve lost

12 pounds in this first week, which is also pretty cool. I’ve been drinking Vitamin Water,

chicken broth, and Italian ices. Dr. Rodriguez says I am to have clear liquids for 3 weeks,

and then full liquids for 3 months. Most people would think that would be hard,

but so far, I have absolutely no desire for food and do not feel hungry at all. I have

to really force myself to drink enough to stay hydrated, so that’s my toughest

work at the moment.

Anyway, I hope to hear more from people who have had the Gastric Sleeve.

I hope this post is helpful to any of you out there thinking about having it done.

Blessings,

Kim Pekin
Midwife
Purcellville, VA
www.gentlehomebirth.com
Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

July 24, 2009

Mary, Lap-Band Success

Filed under: Bariatric diet, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, J & J Band, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity surgery, Realize Band, Weight loss surgery — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 3:42 pm

Mary, Lap-Band Success

MY JOURNEY OF LIFE

Mary, Lap-band Success

Mary, Lap-band Success

 

Ok—so that may sound a little dramatic, but I truly feel that this journey of weight loss has been more than just losing weight.  It has changed more than just the number on the scale—I have a new outlook on life, a healthier way to live and a new group of friends for life.

I had been overweight since 1988—tried every diet out there—including the ones that you order food delivered to you.  I spent enough on diets to have had the lap band done several times over!  I considered bariatric surgery off and on several different times.  Being a Registered Nurse, I saw both the successful and the unsuccessful surgeries done in the U.S.   In 2004 my brother had RNY bypass surgery done—and was successful—he lost 100 lbs in over a year.  I still wasn’t sold on that idea for myself—and started hearing about a new procedure called a “band”.  I started casually researching that –but all the while, I continued to gain weight.  Every time I tried to go on a diet, I would lose a little—then gain more than I lost.

But in October 2007, I was singing with my chorus at competition.  I literally hurt from the multiple rehearsals and performances and all the walking I had to do.  When I wasn’t in a rehearsal or on stage or somewhere I had to be, I was in my room taking a pain pill.  I was truly miserable.

One of the things they do during competitions is take candid pictures during performances and then put them out to see if anyone wants to buy copies for themselves.

That was my “wake-up”.  When I was looking at the pictures, I couldn’t find myself.  I literally didn’t recognize myself.  I knew it had to be me because of the people next to me—but I didn’t know that woman.  You see, I knew what the scales said—but I was in denial about how big I really was.  I thought I was carrying the weight better than that!  But there was the proof—I didn’t even know who I was.

Before I even got home, while I was in my hotel room, I started doing research about the gastric band.  One of the links that came up was for Dr. Arturo Rodriguez in Monterrey, Mexico.  I was amazed to find out that even though the gastric band procedure was still new in the US—he had been doing bands for over 12 years (at that time). I didn’t know they had been around that long!!  So I read everything I could about Dr. R—everything on his website—went to every lap band forum and web—and I learned a lot!! 

One thing to note—the procedure is called a gastric banding.  “Lapband”, “Realize Band”, “Allergan”, “VG”—those are all brand names from which ever company made that particular band.  Each band has individual things that make them a little bit different (that old business competition thing), but they all do the same thing.  It is strictly a matter of which band the Doctor feels is best for each patient.  Some Doctors only use one brand—some use more than one brand.  It’s like choosing which “tools” you want to use.   I personally left that to the Doctor—he is the one with the experience to know which one would work best in my situation.

 

So, back to me!  I spent about 3 weeks researching, reading,  looking before I even mentioned to my husband that I was considering it.  I wanted to be totally prepared for whatever question he had to ask me.  It did surprise me how open he was to the idea.  I had expected to really have to convince him—but once he knew that I had done the research and that this was not just a whim, he was supportive of me pursuing the procedure.   I asked my pt coordinator so many questions, it’s a wonder she didn’t just mark me down as a kook!  So with my husband’s support and encouragement, I scheduled my surgery.

On December 28th, 2007, I got on a plane at DFW and in less than 2 hours, I was landing in Monterrey.  Although we have made several vacation trips to Mexico—this was a new experience for me.  I knew what I had been told to expect—but I was still anxious about what would happen.

I came through immigration and customs, and just as promised, there was Dr. R’s driver standing there with my name on a sign.  He took my bags and we proceeded to the van.  It is about a 30 minute drive from the airport to the clinic (San Pedro) where I had chosen to have my surgery done.   All the way, I was watching the “sights” of Monterrey-Walmart-Sam’s –Maytag-Mary Kay—looked just like Texas to me!!

I chose to travel and have surgery on the same day, so when I got to the clinic, things started happening.  The nurses came in and after I had changed into the “very fashionable!” hospital gown, they started the IV and drew blood for the lab tests. Then the anesthesiologist came in—and then the internist—and the nutritionist—but then Dr. Rodriguez came into the room.  From the moment I met him, I was instantly at ease and knew that I had made the right decision.  He has a manner about him that makes you very comfortable and you know that you are in good hands.  I would like to send many Dr.’s to him to learn!

I was taken to the operating room and I have to say that Dr. Santos, the anesthesiologist is great!  I have had several surgeries before, but this was absolutely the easiest anesthesia I have ever experienced.  One minute I started feeling a little sleepy—and the next I was in the recovery room. The surgery itself takes less than an hour to finish.  After I was awake from anesthesia, I went back to my room and stayed in the clinic over night.  Every few hours the nurses would come in and give me antibiotics and pain medications through the IV.  Whenever I would wake up, I would walk around in the room—and then towards morning, I was walking in the hallways. Dr. Arturo Rodriguez came in to see me that evening and to make sure that I had gotten something to drink and that I had gotten some broth and jello.  The next morning, around 9, Dr. R and everyone else was back again—and as soon as I was dressed and ready to go, the driver was there again to take me to the hotel.  I was at the hotel by around 10:30 on Saturday morning—just 24 hours after I had left DFW.

When I got to the hotel, I took a shower and a nap—in that order!  After I had some soup, on Saturday afternoon, we went to the mall.  There are a couple reasons for that trip.  Primarily to walk—because that helps in many ways—and also to stop at the grocery store(supermercado) to get a few things to have in my room at the hotel to “eat” rather than calling room service every couple hours. I got some soup and yogurt, pudding and jello, Gatorade and water, that type of thing.  Then back to the hotel.  I rested, I walked, I drank.  On Sunday, I could have gone home—but I had messed up on my airline reservation, so I stayed till Monday.  So on Sunday I did basically the same things—and also went for a walk for a few blocks around the hotel.  At all times, I felt perfectly comfortable and safe in Monterrey.

On Monday morning, there was Dr. R’s driver, ready to take me back to the aiport and I was on my way home—ready for my new life to begin.  And that is exactly what it has been.

So—where am I today?  I have gone from wearing size 18W to size 8/10—I have lost about 65 lbs –so far- and am still losing. I would like to lose about another 30 lbs—but the difference is that now I don’t worry about it.  I know it will continue to come off. I eat regular foods—not diet foods—and as long as I don’t go “crazy”, I know that unlike every diet I have been on, this time I won’t gain all the weight back again.

And the crazy thing about this is—I would have never been approved to have had the surgery in the states!!  I was told I needed to GAIN about another 20 lbs to “qualify”!  Or have multiple co-morbidities caused by the weight.  That is NUTS!  Dr. Arturo Rodriguez looks at this as a preventative measure—let’s  get the weight off BEFORE the co-morbidities develop.  THAT is true care!

Almost 1 year from my surgery, I approached Dr. Rodriguez about becoming a patient coordinator and working with him to help other people.  I knew that with my nursing training and being a lap band patient myself, that I would be able to offer a unique perspective to potential clients.  I hope that I am.

So, while I have lost weight with the band—what I have gained is much more.  I have gained a new life—a new outlook and attitude—and I gained a group of friends that will be with me forever.

 

Mary Ellis, RN

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com

maryellis@thebariatric.com

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

July 20, 2009

Losing Weight During The Holidays

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery — Tags: , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 10:09 am

Losing Weight During the Holidays

Holidays are a time to enjoy family and friends, and get-togethers almost always center around good food and conversation.  Everyone brings delicious foods and desserts to numerous parties and gatherings, and life can get very busy and hectic, leaving little time for your regular exercise routine. For someone who is trying to lose weight, the temptations can be overwhelming. 

Diet and exercise are the most important methods of losing weight. However, this may not always be possible or practical during holiday times. Either someone is staying at a hotel, where exercise options are limited, or they might be staying with friends or family where it is hard to get away. As well, it almost seems rude to refuse any food offered at these special occasions. However, the holidays is a time to focus on positive thinking.  Focus on ways to eat healthy and maintain your weight. For example, if you stay in a hotel, why not take the stairs to your room instead of the elevator, or check out the swimming pool? If you are staying with friends or relatives, start a game of soccer with the family or take a walk around town. When the food is on the table, choose your favorite vegetables and fruits first – and enjoy sharing a colorful, healthy meal. If the cake is calling your name, chose a smaller piece.

For people that have had a hard time losing weight, and have had little success with fad diets or “easy” solutions, you may have considered different options such as lap band surgery.  A lap band is a silicone device that is surgically placed around the stomach, and manually shrinks the size of the stomach so that the person is able to feel full with smaller amounts of food. Lap bands produce the best results when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and proper, moderate exercise. This is mostly because too much unhealthy foods can slow the results that the lapband is designed to give.  Combining the surgery with healthy diet and active living will soon results in a healthier person. If that isn’t a great holiday gift then nothing is!

For anyone who has been struggling with the idea of getting lap band surgery, or for anyone who really wants to lose weight, don’t think it is too late for you. Lapband surgery may be just the thing to put your life back on track.

The Bariatric Team

http://www.thebariatric.com

http://www.bandstersforum.com

Originally posted 2009-01-04 11:42:56. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

Why My Weight Loss Procedure Can Fail?

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, RYGB, Revision Surgery, Roux-n-Y, Weight loss surgery, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 10:09 am

Why My Weight Loss Procedure Can Fail?

The first and most important step to minimize the chances of failure from a Bariatric procedure and to increase your success rate is to be well informed about each one of the surgeries before you choose any of them.

What should you know about Weight Loss Surgery?

  • How does each procedure work? How will they assist in weight loss?
  • What should you expect from the Lap Band, Gastric Sleeve, or Gastric Bypass procedures, in terms of weight loss and/or Type 2 Diabetes
  • The difference in short and long-term benefits for each procedure
  • The operative risks and complication rates for each procedure
  • How much follow-up and support will you need for each procedure
  • How much of the Total Patient Care (TPC) program services will you need
  • What kind of adjustments will you need following surgery?
  • What kind of commitment is expected from you, for each procedure
  • What should you expect from the Doctor or Bariatric Group that you choose
  • The surgical options you have for each of the procedures in case of a failure
  • Finally, the cost of each procedure

What should you know about the Doctor or Bariatric Group?

You have to be well informed about the Doctors and medical team performing the Lap Band, the Gastric Sleeve or the Gastric Bypass.  Choose your surgeon and medical team wisely in order to ensure the best results for your weight loss success.

  • Ask about their education and training credentials if you are planning to go to a Latin Country. Look for Medical Degrees in Private Colleges like Monterrey Tech, University of Monterrey, or LaSalle School of Medicine, or other reputable medical universities.
  • Ask about where they received their Surgical Training. There can be a big difference in the treatment you will receive between doctors trained in well-known Private Hospitals, rather than in the Social Governmental Health Care System.
  • Ask about their Diplomas. Did they have to write a Medical Tests to join the Medical Society or Surgeon group, or did they just pay a subscription fee to become a member?
  • Check the number of Revision Surgeries they have been involved with. This may give you an indication of the quality of their work.
  • Check their Surgical Staff for credentials and experience. Consider the Anesthesiologist and any other assistant surgeons. It is important that they have experience in Bariatric surgery.
  • Double-check the Ethics and Professionalism of their Promoters or Coordinators.
  • Finally, check the Follow Up and Support they would provide you after your surgery.

Diet Rules to Follow (Regardless of the Weight Loss Procedure you Choose)

For any weight loss method to be successful and effective, you have to make some healthy lifestyle choices regarding the foods that you eat.  Bariatric surgery is an effective way to increase the rate of weight loss, but the best results can only happen when you make healthy choices.  After Bariatric surgery, you will feel full with a smaller amount of food – make sure to choose foods with the most nutritional value to help you on the journey to a new, healthier you!

  • Follow the Diet Steps recommended by your Doctor or the Nutritionist after surgery.
  • Chewing very well will help to maintain the pouch size, preventing stomach stretching and decreasing the risk of blockages and reflux in the esophagus or stomach.
  • Eat 6 small meals a day.
  • Eat slowly; take your time at the table.
  • Preferably, hydrate or drink beverages between meals.
  • Avoid Gastric Irritants like Alcohol, Coffee, Hot or Spicy, Vinegar, Soy Sauce or other Acid Beverages.
  • Limit high calorie foods like chocolate, cream and full-fat dairy products.

Failure Features Characteristically observed with Bariatric Procedures

These “failures” can be a result of a number of different circumstances or actions, or may develop slowly over time.  Therefore, it is important to have regular follow-ups to monitor your weight loss and the status of your lap band, sleeve or gastric pouch.  Remember: If you have any concerns, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor.

  • Big Gastric Pouches
  • Mega- esophagus
  • Wide Gastric Sleeve
  • Excessive tightness of the Gastric Band
  • Wide outlet of the Bypass Gastro-Yeyuno
  • Very Short common limb of the Gastric Bypass

 

Arturo Rodríguez, MD

http://www.thebariatric.com

Originally posted 2008-07-10 23:25:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

Is the Lap Band Procedure for Anyone?

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery — Tags: , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 10:09 am

Is the Lap Band Procedure for Anyone?

Almost 95% of individuals with a BMI of 30 or more are unable to lose weight using only diet, exercise or drugs. Actually, all individuals with a BMI lower then 35 are not accepted into any Bariatric Program and those with BMI between 35 to 40 are only accepted if they have co-morbidities such as Type 2 Diabetes, Hypertension, Heart Disease, Sleep Apnea, Asthma, etc.

The question is if we want the patients to wait 5 to 10 years until they have gained such a weight and also to wait for high risk co-morbidities to show up in order to accept them for a Lap Band, which is a surgical procedure that takes 30 minutes and has proven to be the safest surgical technique to treat obesity and overweight.

I strongly believe that Lap Band Surgery is a good option for those individuals considering losing weight on a long-term basis, to improve their overall health and well-being.  Gastric Banding or a Lap band can be used to safely treat morbid obesity, and can also be a preventative measure for morbid obesity by individuals with a family history of Obesity, Diabetes, High Cholesterol, or other co-morbidities.

 

Arturo Rodriguez ,MD

Bariatric Surgeon

http://www.thebariatric.com

Originally posted 2008-04-23 18:43:22. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Stomach erosion, Weight loss surgery — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 10:09 am

Lap Band Erosion: Clinical, Radiological and Endoscopic Correlation

Erosion is a long-term complication of lap band surgery, and occurs when the Gastric Band fastened around the upper stomach gradually erodes into the stomach wall and extends into the gastric lumen.  Intragastric Lap Band Erosions have been reported at rates that vary from 0.6% to 10% depending of the operative technique, the doctor’s experience, the device used and the most important factor: the patient’s follow up.

The use of NSAIDS, alcohol and smoking have been proposed as three of the main factors contributing to hyperacidity and irritation of the mucosal layer of the stomach. This important layer prevents us from acquiring ulcers in normal conditions.  When the irritation is persistent, it can cause erosion of the wall layers of the stomach, which may allow the lap band to migrate into the stomach (“inside out” erosion theory).  Repeated vomiting has also been suggested as a possible accelerant, especially when a high degree of obstruction is present (For example, an over-filling of the lap band). Due to the erosion, saliva or food leaks through the hole or ulcer in the stomach and flows along the Lap Band tubing, causing the tissue under the skin of the Lap Band Port to become infected. 

 intragastric-lapband-migration
Figure 1.0 Intragrastric Lap Band Migration – Drawing of radiographic findings illustrates passage of liquid contrast material (Barium) around left section of band that has eroded into the stomach (small arrow).

In some cases, Lap-band erosion occurs gradually and may be silent or go unnoticed. However, several clinical symptoms may develop and should raise the suspicion of Lap Band Erosion: (1) cessation of weight loss, (2) weight regain with loss of restriction in the lap band, or (3) a port site infection. The Clinical Symptoms and Radiological or Endoscopic findings depend on the degree of Erosion.

The diagnosis of Lap Band Erosion can be made at the radiological evaluation performed under fluoroscopy during a gastric band adjustment in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients.  If the radiological evaluation does not show signs of lap-band erosion and the patient has the symptoms, the doctor is obligated to perform an Endoscopy.

port-infection

Lapband Port Infection http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 1.1  Lap Band Port Infection

Due to the fact that Lap Band Erosions usually open with a port infection (35%), the infection will continue after removal of the port, especially if erosion was not diagnosed.  In these cases of chronic infection, further radiological and endoscopic tests are needed to demonstrate the presence of Lap Band Erosion.

endoscopy-findings1

Lapband Erosion, http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 1.2  Endoscopic View of Lap Band Erosion

endoscopy-findings-tips2

Lapband Erosion, http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 1.3 Intragastric Lap Band Erosion – Note the “tips” of a Swedish band into the gastric lumen

erosion-xray

Lapband Erosion, http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 2.0 – Intragastric Lap Band Erosion – Radiological evaluation shows 2 channels of contrast material, instead of one, clearly demonstrated in the later view of Fig. 2.1

erosion-xray2

Lapband Erosion, http://www.thebariatric.com

Fig. 2.1 – Intragastric Lap Band Erosion - In this lateral view you can see the “bridge” between the upper (the pouch) and the lower stomach, the barium contrast material bypasses the part of the lap band that has eroded through the stomach’s wall.

missing-port

Lapband Port infection http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 3.0 - Missing Port – AP plain film shows a lap band without the port. The Patient had a history of port removal secondary to port infection with a persistent infected fluid coming out from the port area.

fistulography

Lapband Fistulography http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 3.1 Intragastric Lap Band Erosion demonstrated by fistulography.
Note the injected contrast material at the skin level is going through the fistula into the lower stomach.

The upper GI x-ray does not reveal lap band erosion in its early stages. However, the radiological appearance of late-stage intragastric band erosion on the upper gastrointestinal series is pathognomonic when the “stair sign” is observed. Barium swallow during the upper GI shows a flow of contrast fluid around the portion of the band that has eroded into the stomach. As mentioned before, in cases where the radiological findings are missing, an endoscopic evaluation is mandatory.

stair-sign

Lapband Erosion, http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 4.0 Intragastric Lap Band Erosion – Radiograph from upper gastrointestinal series shows characteristic appearance of intragastric lap band erosion. Note the liquid contrast material on both sides of penetrating portion of the lap-band, “the stair sign”.

 

band-migrated

Lapband Erosion, http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 4.1 - Radiologic evaluation shows a complete eroded gastric band – Note the location of the migrated band; the lap band device is found in its totality intragastric at the level of stomach antrum (the lower stomach). The patient had not been loosing weight for 3 years.

band

Lapband Erosion, http://www.thebariatric.com

Figure 4.2 – Complete erosion of the gastric band (seen in Figure 4.1) the gastric band was removed by endoscopy

Treatment of lap band erosion requires removing the lapband by laparoscopy or by endoscopy.  Weight regain typically occurs following this procedure. However, it is necessary to remove the gastric band in order to avoid further complications.  It is recommended to treat Lap Band Erosions with another bariatric procedure 6 to 8 months after a de-banding procedure (Lap Band removal). This is due to the high incidence of complications and failures when the procedure is done immediately following removal, or sooner than 6 months after removal, since the portion of stomach that has been eroded is weak and prone to leaking.

It is true that Lap Band Migration means the failure of the operation and leads to a second bariatric procedure; however, erosion is considered a complication with a benign course if it is managed properly.

Susana González M.D.

Radiologist

http://www.thebariatric.com

 

Originally posted 2008-08-09 23:51:53. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

What If my Bariatric Procedure Fails?

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, RYGB, Revision Surgery, Roux-n-Y, Stomach erosion, Weight loss surgery, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve — Tags: , , , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 10:09 am

What If my Bariatric Procedure Fails?

Patients can have minor or large complications after a Lap Band, Gastric sleeve or Gastric Bypass procedure.  Many patients may need another surgery to correct the complications, which can cost them more money. However,  medical complications are not always a result of a bariatric procedure failure.  A Weight Loss Procedure is classified as a failure if the procedure is no longer working.

When a Bariatric Procedure Fails for a patient, there are several different consequences to be considered.  They include the emotional, economical, and physical impacts of the failure.  

What are the emotional consequences of Procedure Failure?

Depending on the type of procedure (Lap Band, Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass), the patient may regain all the weight back again. This can be emotionally devastating because it gives the patient the feeling that he or she has thrown away money for nothing.  They feel anger towards the doctor and themselves, and during this whole process, their health and life could be at risk due to the complications. It is important for patients to know they are not alone. It is also important that they take positive action to address the situation, since this increases the probability of succeeding in the future. 

 What happens after a Procedure Failure?

We can say a Bariatric Procedure is no longer working when the patient has regained all the weight originally lost. This means that the patient needs a new procedure called Revision Surgery. The need for a revision surgery after a procedure has failed may jeopardize the health or life of the patient, as the complication rate increases from 2% to 25%. In addition, it will cost additional money for the revision surgery.

The chances for success for a second, different, Bariatric Surgery are lower then the first time, and the morbidity increases up to 25% depending on the revision procedure to be done. This is in part because the doctor has to be able to finish a new Weight Loss Procedure over the scar tissue and be able to repair what went wrong in the first place. The decision as to which will be the chosen bariatric surgery for the second time will depend on the type of surgery first performed.

How can a patient succeed after Revision surgery?

The patient must be careful to avoid any mistakes made before that may have influenced the development of complications.  It is very important that you ask your doctor and yourself questions like:

  • Why didn’t the first procedure work for me?
  • Which procedure works for me best after failing the first time?
  • Am I going to be able to follow the rules for success with the procedure I am choosing?
  • How much help will I get from the doctor and his staff after revision surgery?
  • Am I looking only for the best price I can get, or for the procedure that can work best for me?

You have to analyze both the pros and cons for any procedure that you are considering, especially when considering a second procedure or revision surgery. You have more chances to succeed if you keep in mind what went wrong the first time, in order to develop a plan for success in the future.

 

Arturo Rodríguez, MD

http://www.thebariatric.com/

http://www.bandstersforum.com/

Originally posted 2008-07-27 21:53:21. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.

10 Ways to Succeed with the Lap Band

Filed under: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Gastric band Procedure, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery — Tags: , , , , , , , — Dr. Arturo Rodriguez @ 10:09 am

10 Ways to Succeed with the Lap Band

Here are some helpful tips to help you succeed with the Lap-Band on a long-term basis.

Before you have the Gastric Lap Band:

1. Search for the Right Doctor for You
Many companies or groups claim to be the Best Experts in Lap Band surgery.  However, it is important to check the qualifications and experience of your surgeon before making your decision.  Find out whether the doctor is a member of any medical organizations and whether they have any experience in bariatric surgery.  Make sure to research the company and the Doctor´s credentials, and look into the facilities and medical team.  You can also check with the companies that manufacture the lap band products, like Allergan or Johnson & Johnson, to find more recommendations.  It is very important to be in the right hands when you have surgery.  The experience of your surgeon can make a big difference in your weight loss outcome.  Surgery can be life-changing – Don´t play with your health.  Look for the right doctor, and not just the cheapest deal.

2. Double-check the Doctor´s Coordinators
Some coordinators will say anything to convince you that their team and services are the best. The personality of the coordinators or the medical team can tell you a lot about the kind of work they do.  When talking on the phone, check for signs of aggressiveness, or whether they speak poorly of other bariatric teams or surgeons.  If they tell you that they know “everything” about Lap Bands or bariatric surgery, this is probably not true.  Take your time to analyze their ethics and professionalism, and keep your ears and eyes open.  Be cautious of coordinators that seem too pushy or don´t respect your requests.  These coordinators are not looking out for your best interests – they are just looking for your money.  Instead, look for coordinators that demonstrate clear communication and professionalism, honesty, friendliness and a helpful and caring attitude.

3. Avoid companies that are just “moving patients through the border”
Some “coordinators” may contact you to promote weight loss surgery without an actual connection to a qualified bariatric surgeon.  They may not even work for the Doctor that they are promoting, and are just looking to make money.  They do not have your best interests in mind – you are a merchandize for them.  They might make promises that they can´t follow through with, and may get any Doctor for your surgery as long as they get paid for arranging things for you.  When researching into the company, find out as much as you can about all the details, including any hidden costs or fees.  Be sure that you feel confidant and comfortable with the people that you are working with before you make your final decision.

4. Communicate with other Banded Patients
Often, the best source of information is someone that has already gone through the experience before.  You can find out answers by asking other people that have had the lap band procedure.  Search for online forums, chat rooms, or message boards.  Some questions you might ask could be:

  • What kind of surgical weight loss procedure did they receive?
  • Was the surgery what they expected?
  • How did the Doctor and his medical team treat them?
  • Did they have any complications after surgery?
  • How long did the surgery process take?
  • How have they adjusted to life with the lap band?
  • Did they see the results that they were expecting or hoping for?
  • How soon did they see results?
  • Would they recommend their doctor to someone else looking for the same surgery?

After you have the Gastric Lap Band Procedure:

5. Begin the Journey: Develop Good Habits
After Lap Band surgery, you will need to make some changes to your diet and activity.  Small actions can results in big changes and lead to successful weight loss with your new lap band.  Make sure that you learn about what foods to eat and what foods to avoid after your surgery, and determine if you can make these changes.  You will also see better results if you include physical activity in your daily routine.  If you are always used to driving in the car or riding the bus, try going for a short walk or getting off the bus earlier. If you do walk, try walking faster.  Park your car farther away from where you are going so you can get some extra steps into your day. Use any excuse to move your body, like taking the dogs out or doing some gardening. Do anything that will help you to develop new, healthy habits.

6. Your Lap Band Expectations
Imagine yourself at the end of the “Lap Band Road” and keep Focused on that image. The vast majority of banded patients expect the band to work alone by itself, without changing any of their old habits. But the truth is that you do need to put a lot of energy into yourself and encourage yourself to improve your eating habits and activities in order to each your weight loss goals. The Lap Band is a tool to help you, but it won’t do the job alone. For the best results, you need to be committed to positive change.

7.  Find the optimum Lap Band Fill
My advice is to reach a “fill point” where you can keep enjoying the foods you like, while still being able to lose or maintain your weight. Too much tightness or restriction will have you at the border line for being de-banded, and stomach erosion can happen frequently in patients with large fills. Do not compete with the Lap Band by trying to force food to pass through the band. If you feel excessive restriction, visit your doctor to have your band adjusted. 

8. Maintain Good Communication with your Doctor
This is the most important of the 10 “keys for success.”  Make sure you can reach your Doctor whenever you need him or her.  The Bariatric Surgeons and Doctors are different than General Surgeons in the follow-up care.
Don’t hesitate to call your Doctor if you have any of the following symptoms: Heartburn, pain at the port area or in the abdomen, frequent vomiting, difficulty swallowing or reflux.  

9. Have a Barium Swallow or an Endoscopy atleast once a year
This can help to indicate the condition of your stomach, esophagus, and the lap band system, including the positioning of the band and port.  This may also help to detect any problems earlier, which can allow for more time to solve the problem. 

10. Have your Fills done under Fluoroscopy as often as possible
Office fills do not detect early, easily-correctable problems until it may be too late.  Slippage and erosion are more frequently seen in patients that have never had follow-ups under fluoroscopy.  Check with your Doctor to find out their process for lap band fills – if they only do office fills, ask your Doctor to recommend someone that can provide fills under fluoroscopy for you.

 

Arturo Rodriguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com

Originally posted 2008-05-31 20:39:08. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Did you like this? If so, please bookmark it,
tell a friend
about it, and subscribe to the blog RSS feed.
« Newer Posts — Older Posts »

Powered by WordPress

© 2000-2010 Arturo Rodriguez, MD All Rights Reserved -- Copyright notice by Blog Copyright

Canonical URL by SEO No Duplicate WordPress Plugin

Theme Tweaker by Unreal