TMClem62530

I've asked my Dr. if it is possible to fix a flipped port in the office. He replied, 'it's possible, but I won't do it.' I get on here and there are least 2 other bandsters that have had this procedure done in their doctor's office. WOW, where can I possibly find one that will do it for me? My port sits at a 90 degree angle and is painfull being bounced on a hard matress going down the road (I driver team truck cross country) jabbing me and I've stopped wearing jeans. X-rays actually show the port in it's proper position when I turn sideways. That is a cool picture, but not when I try to get a fill. Thank God the doctor numbs me first. Of course, I can't find anyone that wants to attempt a fill/unfill with it positioned like that. Yes, I'm also looking for a local dr. here in GA that will take over my aftercare so I won't have a 7 hour drive one-way. This is the biggest hassel cause I had surgery done in TJ, Mexico, MIDband and the port issue. Anyone got suggestions? Thanks for listening to my ranting and raving. Tacy

LisaA, That wouldn't happen to be Dr. Curry (He is banded as well as Erin the dietian) would it? I know he has an office in Cincinnatti,OH and KY. If so, he's GREAT!! I've been going to him for some time now and his entire staff is wonderful!! I also had my surgery in TJ by dr. verboonen (he got a lapband, too). I'm now trying to find a dr. that will do a revision on my port as it sits at a 90 degree angle and is bothersome plus extremely difficult to get a fill (though Dr. C and the other staff don't have much of a problem). Mostly it's bothersome and aggervaiting and when I can't get up to see Dr. C (Ice storm in GA) no one and I mean no one would touch me the way the port sits. Thank God I haven't had a true emergency!! I know what you mean about judgement. I was self pay for the initial surgery and I'll be self pay for the revision, too. Can't seem to get a break when you don't follow the flow like others. Just thought I'd add my $.02. Glad you found someone! Tacy

NataliesMommy; Your Dr. actually did the procedure in her office? She only charged you for a fill? I didn't know a procedure like that could be done in an office setting. This isn't a Dr.; she's an ANGEL!! That is one woman that cares and takes the Hypocratic oathe to heart and what a BIG heart she has, too!! Next time you see her give her a handshake from me and thank her. Also, ask her where I can find someone like that? I had my surgery done in MX and I'm finding it impossible to find anyone that will do a port revision so access can be accomplished more easily. It actually sits sideways and I've got pictures to prove it. I'd pay more than a fill price, but some drs. are down right GREEDY and exorbatant with their prices!! Tacy M.

Babs in TX, Hopefully, you are still coming around from time to time to see how things are on this site. I am much in the same situation you described above. I'm too tight and I knew it, but I got a barium swallow ($175 self pay) to confirm and I'm now trying to get a Gastroendologist (sp) to take a look at me. Please note that I was banded in '04, in Mx, my port floats as it was not attached and I have a MIDband that no one wants to touch with a ten foot pole and gloves because it's not US FDA approved. I've phoned numerous Drs. in several states and even the Fill Center who informed me there are actually 6 US FDA unapproved bands and they could only reccommend this site to me as an aftermath. I do have a WONDERFUL Dr. in OH that, but with this weather being what it is (winter and GA is gonna get slamed with ice and snow), a 7 hr. drive one way and any emergency that might arise, I'm trying to find something more local. He and the NP have commented when I told them of this that a port is a port and it shouldn't make any difference (he and his NP access the port w/o any problems or floro)...I know they are right, but it's not reality. My daughter is an RN, but she lives about as far away as the Dr. and the weather there is just as bad if not worse because of the mountains. I must say I did find one Dr. in AL that would take me for a fee + adjustment + floroscopy (if needed at a tune of $400.00) = $$$$$$. I've even been quoted an amount of $2,000.00. The amount some doctors want to soak you for is OUTRAGEOUS!! It makes me wonder if they remember the Hypocratic Oath. I was wondering if you'd be so kind as to contact me so we could discuss the options, life changes and any advise you might have? I would really appreciate it!! Tacy

I should also add that I've called any and everyone mentioned in GA for fills and aftercare to no avail. The risk factor seems to be the issue along with the above mentioned items. Are there no compassionate doctors in this area or that aren't out to charge an exorbitant amount for their services?

Debbie, I don't have any problem with a ARNP, MSN, FNP-C doing my fills, but since I was banded in MX, it is a MIDband (not USDA approved) and don't have the port tacked down I have to go to OH to see Dr. Curry and his staff. They are all GREAT! I do wish I could find a doctor a bit closer that doesn't want you to take out a small personal loan for fills (Really, some of the prices are ridiculous.) I drive truck for a living so the distance doesn't bother me, but I was hoping for a more regular visit to have fills, nutritionist consults, floro if needed and an easier time of things...What was I thinking, wait I wasn't thinking.

To Whomever, Dr. Curry from Cincinnati accepts bandsters that were banded in Mexico. His entire office staff is helpful, polite and down-to-earth! Initial consultation is $300 then fills are $150. Floro is another $195 charged by the hospital. His office is right across from the hospital. He frequents ObesityHelp for questions, will be a speaker at the Lexington event, has a website and his number is 877-442-2263. :clap2: This is an option you may want to check into. Hope this helps in your search. Tacy Started 204 @5'4" Lowest 108 Goal 120