Had VSG surgery... didn't go so well...

[ThinkingThin 0]

Has anyone here had a leak that was 2 - 3cm long? How long was your recovery?

My surgeon warned me I would have a higher chance of a leak than most because I previously had a lap band and a TON of scar tissue around my esophegus and stomach. I developed a leak instantly (had surgery June 2nd) and went in for a repair surgery June 3rd. The repair wouldnt hold because my stomach was so chewed up. They did a 3rd surgery on June 4th to put in an extra drain and a feeding tube. I have to be on a feeding tube for at LEAST another month (nothing but small amounts of Water by mouth) and that's if things heal up quickly. I am very discouraged by this and I really hope a couple months from now I'll be back to normal and glad I had this surgery. :tea: I was self-pay and right now I'm rather regretful of it all.

[Tiffykins 673]

Hey there, I think I replied over on OH as well. My leak "hole" was the diameter of a nickel.

I had a similar experience, but I only had my band for 8 months before I revised to VSG. I had surgery on June 3rd, the leak was found during my third leak test on June 5th. Rushed to surgery to repair the leak, my lungs would not cooperate and I landed in critical condition/icu for 4 days. I was in the hospital a total of 9 days, and came home with a TPN bag, and a central line in my arm. I never had the feeding tube, so I can't say that I understand how you feel on that part.

I still have no regrets for having this surgery. Being fat, and dying of heart disease or developing diabetes in my opinion is so much worse in the long run. I haven't had anything to eat or drink, not even ice chips since June 2nd, and I have 4 more days of the TPN bag. The chance for a leak triples with revision, and due to the complications I had with my band, I was not completely surprised that I ended up with a leak. Honestly, I wish everything would of gone smoothly, but at this point, all I can do is move forward and try to recover 100%.

Even with all the complications, I would do it again to get the band out of my body and finally start living.

I go back to the surgeon on Monday and hopefully will start the clear liquid stage. I'll be on the TPN bag of nutrient replacement for a couple more weeks because they have to wean me off of it. I won't lie, I truly believe that a positive attitude is the only thing that has helped me stay focused. My husband is deployed, my son is in Texas with my family, and I am here in Florida alone day in and day out. I only have 3 friends, and they all have family of their own to tend to, so it's been difficult this last week, but I've got to do this 1 day at a time. I can't worry about the next month, getting through today, and tomorrow are big milestones for me. I go back for another leak test, and I can only hope my appointment brings good news.

Believe me, I know it's difficult. I've cried, and been upset, but I can honestly say that I'm not going to let these little speed bumps become roadblocks on my path to success. I'll keep you in my thoughts, and prayers, if you ever want to talk or chat, you can message me here. . .

Tiff

[WASaBubbleButt 41]

Has anyone here had a leak that was 2 - 3cm long? How long was your recovery?

My surgeon warned me I would have a higher chance of a leak than most because I previously had a lap band and a TON of scar tissue around my esophegus and stomach. I developed a leak instantly (had surgery June 2nd) and went in for a repair surgery June 3rd. The repair wouldnt hold because my stomach was so chewed up. They did a 3rd surgery on June 4th to put in an extra drain and a feeding tube. I have to be on a feeding tube for at LEAST another month (nothing but small amounts of Water by mouth) and that's if things heal up quickly. I am very discouraged by this and I really hope a couple months from now I'll be back to normal and glad I had this surgery. :tea: I was self-pay and right now I'm rather regretful of it all.

Ohhhh no! I think I know you from OH. I'm so sorry!

There is a higher chance of leaks with revisions. I'm trying to remember, didn't you have a band, then a slip, then surgery to correct the slip and then the sleeve?

I'm so very sorry you have to go through this. :ohmy:(

Who was your surgeon? I think I know what state you are in so I'm afraid to ask. :o/

Just hang out here with us, we'll get you through this!

[Elisabethsew 50]

Like the others, I am bery sorry that you're dealing with complications and I can understand your disappointment. Keep posting here and letting us know how you're doing.

[Oregondaisy 2,021]

I'm sorry to hear of what a rough time you're having. In the long run it will be worth it. It's a good thing you had the band out.

I wish you an easy recovery and hang in there. We will all support you!

[Ruthi 60]

I had some scar tissue also from a previous partial gastrectomy and my staple line was ashered to my liver so I guess my choice to get the sleeve saved some other complications down the road. I am sorry you had complications and keep in touch with us..We are here to hold your hand in a cyberspace sort of way.

[Lisa B 0]

First off, I'm sorry that either of you have had problems.... When I read this- It scared me ;-( I currently have the band and I'm 4 years out........... Reading your posts, has totally opned my eyes- I hope both of you girls regain your health and your strength quickly and Yes a positive attitude can carry you the distance- Stay focused on the prize of weight loss, and take it day by day. Please keep us posted on your progress.

Thinking of each of you! and Hugzzzz to you both

[Elisabethsew 50]

Was your surgeon Pleatman?

[ThinkingThin 0]

Wow, thanks for all the support. I did post over on OH about this (I had to change my username because I was being harassed, sorry if I confused anyone)... I guess I keep thinking if I post it maybe it'll go away. :thumbup: I am feeling better, I think I'm just getting used to sitting around all day. I have lost a dramatic amount of weight so that is starting to make me feel better. The good news is that insurance picked up the tab so at least I don't have that looming over my head.

My anti-nausea meds (I dont know if I actually need them or not, but I'm kind of afraid NOT to take them) make me really spacey so I am not posting too much.

My doctor has been exceptional in taking care of me and is in touch with me daily. He tried twice to get the leak to close but my stomach was so chewed up he was afriad to try a third time and cause more problems so that's why we're doing it the hard way.

I apologize if I'm not making sense... these meds really make me "out there" if you know what I mean. Its hard to type so I'm keeping this short. I appreciate your support and feel a lot better knowing I'm nt going though this alone. I am not so depressed anymore and feel there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Thank you again.

[MacMadame 81]

I think you are making sense...

leaks are scary and sometimes all you can do is give them time. My aunt had a partial gastrectomy for stomach cancer and, when it came back, they operated again and she got a leak and, in the end, all that worked was to take it easy.

Sorry you had to go through that...

[Tiffykins 673]

It is so scary, and I'm sorry you are having to go through all of this. . . I hope the rest of your recovery goes well, and will definitely keep you in my thoughts.

[Rosebud2 26]

I'm so sorry that it has been so difficult for you. I hope it gets easier soon.