JACKIEO85

Have you researched other WLS options? More than likely a Band is going to just create MORE problems here.I'd get the problems treated first. And if your Doctor is SMART? that would be his recommendation also. If your already experiencing problems with the esophagus the band isn't going to HELP, instead probably make things worse. Esophagitis is inflammation that damages tissues of the esophagus, the muscular tube that delivers food from your mouth to your stomach. Esophagitis (uh-sof-uh-JI-tis) often causes painful, difficult swallowing and chest pain. Causes of esophagitis include stomach acids backing up into the esophagus, infection, oral medications and allergies. Treatments for esophagitis depend on the underlying cause and the severity of tissue damage. If left untreated, esophagitis may change the structure and function of the esophagus. Some people suffer from Achalasia post banding, and If your already having difficulties with the Esophagus getting a Band "might" just add to those problems. Acute hemorrhagic gastritis is an important cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, accounting for approximately one fourth of UGI bleeding in endoscopic studies. Most patients with hemorrhagic gastritis have underlying predisposing conditions, such as alcohol abuse, portal hypertension, short- or long-term NSAID use, and physiologic stress associated with hospitalization in an ICU for severe life-threatening disease or trauma. The key to management is prevention; however, once established, hemorrhagic gastritis is treated with both supportive measures and measures directed toward healing the mucosal damage. In general, therapy is the same as that for classic peptic ulcer disease. These patients present a challenge, however, because of their underlying diseases and because of the potential for diffuse mucosal bleeding, the latter making the use of endoscopic therapy more difficult. Surgery is an option of last resort for the patient who continues to bleed despite aggressive medical and endoscopic therapy. Future investigations will focus on pharmacologic therapy to enhance mucosal defense mechanisms, therapy that will likely attain increasing importance in the years to come. I've posted the above information as a FYI, you may already be aware of what each of these conditions are, but it also helps anyone else that might not and can benefit from the posted information. Good Luck~

I'm sorry to hear about your Breast cancer Diagnosis, Congratulations on being CA Free for 3 years. I don't have experience with tamoxifen but I believe your Dr. is probably concerned about Blood Clots post operatively since this is a side effect of Tamoxifen. Good Luck on your Journey.

It's Truly SAD PERIOD.. Because Unfortunately the ONLY complications that the majority believe to be connected to the Lap Band are the ones that "The official studies" state. The vast majority of problems that occur are seldom reported to the manufacturer or FDA, by the doctors because they too believe "that doesn't happen with the Lap Band" Well In fact it's a foreign body place into our bodies and Anything can happen,and does happen, IT'S ALL CONNECTED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY.

Just an FYI: when taking PPI's( Protein pump inhibitors for heartburn) , gerd, reflux..it's best not to stay on them long term if you can prevent it and when you do go off of them it's Best to taper off or you can experience Rebound reflux worse then what you started out with .(information that Doctors don't always share) Prevacid, Nexium, Omeprazole,Protonix to name a few....

I'm sorry that your going through this,I'd hope that things can be resolved but the reality is that it probably Won't. I'd get the band removed rather than risk more complications. Reflux, and aspiration are NOT NORMAL. And you don't HAVE to have ANY other WLS, just because your surgeon does a particular surgery. And yes I know about the emotional roller coaster ride you'll be on if you choose not to revise. BUT I believe your STRONG enough to do what is needed. Don't risk your health further. I've copied some literature about slips. Complications associated with adjustable gastric banding for morbid obesity: a surgeon’s guide Anterior slip results from upward migration of the anterior wall of the stomach through the band. This can be due to insufficient anterior fixation and disruption of the fixation sutures. The second cause may be related to increased pressure in the pouch due to early solid food, vomiting, overeating or early (< 4 wk) band fill Posterior slip is defined as a herniation of the posterior wall of the stomach through the band. This is usually related to the surgical technique but is less frequent now with adoption of the pars flaccida approach instead of the perigastric approach In both types of slip, the patient usually presents with dysphagia, vomiting, regurgitation and food intolerance. The diagnosis is made by upper gastrointestinal series. Complications related to band slip include gastric perforation, necrosis of the slipped stomach (type-V prolapse), upper gastrointestinal bleeding and aspiration pneumonia. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3038361/

Port-site infection Port-site infections can be classified as early and late. Early infections will manifest with the cardinal signs of erythema, swelling and pain. These infections typically occur within the immediate postoperative period and may be reduced by the use of perioperative antibiotics. Early infection with cellulitis alone may be treated with oral antibiotics. If the response is inadequate, then intravenous antibiotic use is warranted. When the infection does not respond to intravenous antibiotics and is limited to the port, the port should be removed and the tubing knotted and left inside the abdomen. Once the local infection is resolved, a new port may be placed and tubing connected with laparoscopic guidance. Late port site infections are often caused by delayed band erosion with ascending infection. This usually manifests several months after surgery and can be associated with loss of restriction. These infections typically do not respond well to antibiotic treatment. If left undetected, band infection can evolve into potentially life-threatening intra-abdominal sepsis. Gastroscopy will confirm the diagnosis of band erosion. This complex clinical scenario is treated most expeditiously by removal of the band. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3038361/

I'm sorry that you've had to go through of this. unfortunately too many have to deal with Surgeons that feel they are "too busy" and negate our feelings. When we are NOT Stupid and KNOW better than anyone when something is wrong with our bodies. I myself would have gone to the office and made it clear to the entire office staff, doctor and patient's that might be waiting to see this apparently INEPT Surgeon..that you had called numerous times, and that you didn't appreciate having to come to the office to get answers since you were IN PAIN for >>>>>DAYS . I would have let anyone in the office hear how UNPROFESSIONAL the doctor and staff have been to your requests for help IF need be mention the word Malpractice and for some reason that ALWAYS gets someone's attention. (makes other patients understand what type of treatment they can expect , which sound like little to none) And I'd call the hospital and get a FULL Pre and Operative report so that you can see what exactly what was Done, what he removed and what the findings were. It's YOUR RECORD and all you have to do is request it

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-02-05/allergan-seeks-to-sell-lap-band-and-obesity-unit-by-june.html

I'm posting a link http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3038361/ Complications associated with adjustable gastric banding for morbid obesity: a surgeon’s guide it looks at the complications that occur with the lap Band I HOPE it Helps .

This could he allergies and congestion that builds up. Any solutions to curb morning tightness My LB Doc says: it's not uncommon for Banders to feel tight in the A.M. and Since all we ever hear is that Breakfast is the "most important meal of the day" it's tough trying to trying to accomplish this. Some banders prefer to wait and eat a later breakfast, personally I used to drink protein water (initially) or eat small amounts of steel cut oatmeal, or scrambled eggs. Something nutritional. But I've never heard or been told of anything that actually HELPS to relieve the tightness sorry....

1 pkg of TRUE brand Lemon or lime http://www.truelemon.com/products.html 1 pkg of plain gelatin make according to package directions, add true lemon and pour into Popsicle mold and freeze. i found a link to SF fruit pops also http://www.ehow.com/how_2120094_make-sugar-free-fruit-popsicles.html The biggest problem is that all the commercially made pops are full of preservatives, and even tho it says SF it's NOT So I think you have to be willing to make your own to control the sugar and preservative content.

The niacin flush is a side effect of taking large doses of niacin (vitamin B3) supplements. It consists of reddening of skin along with a burning or itching sensation, which starts about 10 to 20 minutes after taking niacin supplements. The flush happens when the niacin causes the small blood vessels in the skin to dilate. Flushing of the face is the most common, but it can also occur in the neck and upper body. Most people who take large doses of regular niacin feel the niacin flush. The niacin flush isn't dangerous, but it can be very uncomfortable and even frightening if you're not expecting it. The niacin flush may be reduced in severity by taking aspirin 30 minutes before taking the niacin supplements, or by using time-released niacin. IF it doesn't contain niacin, then you could be allergic to any number of things(additives) IN the vitamins as well, not specifically the vitamins. http://nutrition.about.com/od/calcium/f/What-Is-A-Niacin-Flush.htm

I'll attach the link to the previous information http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3038361/ This Link is a SURGEON'S GUIDE to LB complications: I'd copy it and take it to him. He is in Arizona Thats kind of funny because when I was calling him with severe pain in my side he acted like that had nothing to do with the surgery Unfortunately..too often the Doc's negate our feelings, it's madding that they think were too stupid to understand our own bodies I had two days earlier until the ER DR had the CT scan done I don't think he believed that I was in pain or having any issue I believe that so many surgeons only know what has been reported in the manufactures literature and DON'T know how to treat problems from the LB as they arise. I'm even MORE AMAZED that when things occur, that they EXPECT immediate improvement? If you damage a nerve, and experience pain , once you remove that source of irritation the nerve doesn't immediately respond in the positive just because you removed the source of irritation. It's going to take time.., Sorry ... I just hate that he asked you, now that I removed the Fluid all your pain is gone right? I sure hope that your feeling better from the antibiotics !! AND find a resolution. You stated that this has been going on 8 months? has this been infected since your placement surgery sept,20,2012? Please keep us posted.

ALL WLS' have complications http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3038361/ The studies are THERE, no matter how old they are,Some complications are just less prevalent because of improved surgical methods. Although early reports described a 35% initial excess weight loss on average by most patients, more recent reports describe not only high failure rates but also high reintervention rates for both band-related complications (e.g. band erosion, leakage, slippage, port infection and esophageal dilatation) and failure to lose weight such that as few as 54% of patients may have their band in place after 10 years Scar tissue will be present for any surgical procedure, unfortunately it affects the band differently, A Vertical gastric sleeve is safer if done on a VIRGIN stomach, apposed to being done after a band. But malabsorption issues are a problem with Gastric bi-pass. I'm sure your aware no surgery is without risks. The following link gives a brief overview of the varied WLS types http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3470459/ I guess what has to be considered is What choice you can live with, what are the possible complications associated with it, Can I deal with having multiple surgeries if the band doesn't work, and which is best suited to me? In my Opinion the band is not the Panacea it is touted to be, and it's not permanent (no matter what is said). Good Luck in your decision~~ feel free to email me

Seeing as I was told by my Nut. that the vitamins minerals needed to be sugar free? (not sure if that's true) I use NUTRILITE Daily Free Multi-Vit/Minerals. heres an amazon linkhttp://www.amazon.co...rilite vitamins AND THESE ARE GLUTEN FREE ALSO

between the 2 wks pre-op diet and 3 weeks post-op I lost 35 lbs

That 1st visit really depends on the Dr. I'd call the office and ask them what to expect, since NO Dr is the same. Personally, I WISH that they had some form of continuity in LB information. But that will never happen, and the LB will be gone and the surgeons will be OFF doing the "next" great WLS.(sorry ranting) My first visit was to discuss what I expected from being banded, a seminar explaining the Band, eating protocol,fills, weight loss expectations, requirements and tests prior to having it, ( insurance hoops). I can't stress enough to find a GREAT bariatric surgeon first, do your research, find others that have the same one, question, question and ask more questions. HOPEFULLY it will save you stress later on.

I went through a bout of Severe food poisoning, I can relate ​ It's NOT fun but try to relax. your probably feeling more of a pouch enlargement Symptoms of pouch enlargement include lack of satiety, heartburn, regurgitation and occasional chest pain. The diagnosis is made with an upper gastrointestinal series. See your doctor and them do the Upper GI with contrast to check. IT will show band position (I believe) better than doing Endoscopy like some M.D.'s suggest Good Luck and keep us posted ~

I was told once by another Bander that it takes 5 years for your head and your body to get into SYNC. And I have found that to be so TRUE for me. I can look in the mirror and see I'm smaller ,but my mind still sees the "fat me" I recently met a guy and after talking he told me the reason he wouldn't date me is because "I don't take care of myself enough My reply would be "NEXT" that person is NOT worth your time or thought PERIOD!!! Find someone that excepts you as the YOU that you are NOT someone they want you to be. If it continues to bother you talk to a professional,we all need help especially since most have "issues" with food that's why we needed WLS,but some "issues" run deeper than just food.

Congratulations!! Do you also have the option of discussing ALL WLS OPTIONS? I ask because allot of Insurance carriers are going to ONCE in a lifetime coverage/no coverage on WLS. And it's good to view varied options if you only get one. Of course all WLS's have complications, but a few questions to ask, which has the best long term success, what is best for MY BMI, Can I accomplish the necessary goals. Find out about the surgeon and his staff BEFORE you need to see them for treatment, How many surgeries has he done and the different types, do they have a REGULAR support group? LB's are not permanent (no matter who says they are) Sleevers will tell you, you'll get restriction Like the BAND without the "stuck, Sliming, burping", episodes. Bi-pass you deal with Malabsorption issues..you see what I'm saying Surgeon's are WELL aware of the information that an insurance comp. needs to allow coverage. Some Insurances, not all require months of proven weight loss records or attempts, a psychological eval, Stress testing, Endoscopy tests. Besides being classified as Overweight, high BMI, some insurances also consider Co-Morbidities like: Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High cholesterol issues of Medical necessity. GOOD LUCK in whatever you decide~~~

Hi everyone, I just want it to hear how are you doing and your story, mine: I have been banded for 17 months, have lost 54 pounds,AWESOME!!! struggle on every single pound., totally understandable,it took me 9 months to lose 70 lbs and reflux put an abrupt stop to my continued loss Took my doctor a full year to get me in to any restriction, ;)going slowly for fills is not a bad thing, helps to reduce complications. I have a 14cc band and now I have 11.7cc on it... Feel restriction now, with that said my journey hasn't been a walk in the park, I believe I have lost this 54 pounds by dieting and watching what I eat most of them because like I said I had no restriction..hopefully now that your experiencing restricition your loss will increase and be a little easier? When I felt restriction I was able to lose 10-12 lbs a month. For the last week or so ever since I went for a feel again. I feel a really good restriction, satisfied, not looking for food... I don't even think of food anymore... The reason that I put this post up there is because I feel very discurage, disappointed at my self for not succeeding with my band WHAT? you absolutely have been successful! if your not gaining your succeeding..sometimes I really think of getting it removed and going for the gastric sleeve surgery I too have researched the sleeve but honestly can't bear the thought of removing 3/4 of my stomach. I know some say the sleeve is restriction without the BAND, But ALL WLS's have complications. I'm 100% that if I fail I'm NOT having another WLS, but that's me. But I gotta put my feet in ground and stop my self from negative thoughts... Please let me know how you are doing... . KEEP GOING....your doing ...Great!!! Our emotions tend to get the better of us at times Were ALL Human...It's going to take time to get from HERE to THERE

I Personally think your doing AWESOME! I have met very FEW Doctors with EMPATHY. And I never allow a doctor to dictate my treatment, your losing weight, port problems will slow that loss. Even if you explained that to him most wouldn't care too many care about NUMBERS, it's a learned response. I had an M.D. like this I called her the Numbers Nazi If the numbers weren't RIGHT then I must be doing something wrong. Needless to say I've had a new M.D. and we Discuss Treatment it's not dictated to me, were both happier. KEEP up the great weight loss!!

Personally I'd find a New Surgeon ASAP Did he remove the port AND the band? Either way something is seriously wrong,did he bother to explain WHY the infection is in the abdomen? Port-site infection Port-site infections can be classified as early and late. Early infections will manifest with the cardinal signs of erythema, swelling and pain. These infections typically occur within the immediate postoperative period and may be reduced by the use of perioperative antibiotics. Early infection with cellulitis alone may be treated with oral antibiotics. If the response is inadequate, then intravenous antibiotic use is warranted. When the infection does not respond to intravenous antibiotics and is limited to the port, the port should be removed and the tubing knotted and left inside the abdomen. Once the local infection is resolved, a new port may be placed and tubing connected with laparoscopic guidance. Late port site infections are often caused by delayed band erosion with ascending infection. This usually manifests several months after surgery and can be associated with loss of restriction. These infections typically do not respond well to antibiotic treatment. If left undetected, band infection can evolve into potentially life-threatening intra-abdominal sepsis. Gastroscopy will confirm the diagnosis of band erosion. This complex clinical scenario is treated most expeditiously by removal of the band.

Chad where is the pain located? On a Scale of 1-10 ? and When you say gas pain do you mean bloated, with flatulence? personally, flatulence and burping are my life after banding constantly.