Questions For Surgeon Prior To Surgery

[mufasas-mom 170]

Here is my list of questions I have for my surgeon - am I missing anything? I already know the brand of lapband (Allergan). I also have a diagram of the stomach/chest area on my questions list for him to draw where my incisions will be, but it's not showing up here when I did a cut and paste. I was going to ask about diet restrictions, but i remembered that I'll be getting that list on my next visit.

1) Where will my port be placed?

a. Want to avoid the ‘golf ball’ protrusion from stomach area

b. Low profile port

2)Where exactly will my incisions be located? What are the approximate size(s) of the incisions?

3) What size will my band be? 10cc?

4) Will I have any saline added to the band at the time of surgery? Is a double check done to ensure there is no leakage of the band or obstructions prior to closing me up?

5) What will be the size of my ‘new’ esophagus? As is, I take Lunesta for sleep; will these become a problem for me after surgery?

6) When will my first fill appointment be after surgery?

7) What in your opinion are the leading causes of band erosion and/or failure of the band?

8) According to Allergan it seems that 11% out of 299 subjects (or roughly 33 ppl) had band slippage or pouch dilation – what do you think is the cause of this?

9) What attributes do you think makes the best candidate for lap band long term success?

10) MEDICATIONS:

a. liquid form of pain med

b. Zofran ODT 4mg will be needed for anti-nausea

[JamieNP 20]

I had a long list like yours with similar questions.

Some others were. How many incicdents of MRSA have you had?

How many band slippages have you had and what was the cause.

What do you think causes people to "fail" at the lapband. (he says "icecream/milshakes)

Can I have an MRI (yes)

Can I ever have an NG tube placed?

What are the signs and symptoms that I need to go to the ER or into the office?

[mufasas-mom 170]

GOOD ADDITIONS, THANKS.

[Catherine55 43]

Here are some more:

What will my pre-op diet be?

What will my post-op diet be?

How soon after surgery can I exercise?

What is your philosophy on fills (i.e., is your doctor stingy or can you come and get adjusted without having to wait a set time if a fill doesn't get you to good restriction)

Do you have a suggestion for what my goal weight should be?

What are the things that you think most greatly contribute to bandsters' success? (My view... exercise is KEY).

I hope that helps!! Take your measurements now and a bunch of before photos if you haven't yet! You will want them later for sure.

Also, I found it really helpful to write out (and go back to) a plan for success, as well as a pro con list about why I was having the surgery (which really helped because I had some doubts before I did it, and writing it out really helped to solidify my decision). You can see both HERE if you are interested.

Best wishes,

Catherine