VSG and comorbidities

triflyr · January 1, 2010

Hello, I have a few questions about having a vsg. I also have several comorbidities, i.e. hyperlipidemia, hypertension, diabetes type II, and sarcoidosis. I am a 46 year old male, 5'7" tall, 263lbs. BMI 41.

My main question is, are there negative possibilities/disadvantages that this surgery might pose in regard to my sarcoidosis? I understand that the removal of sarcoidal granulomas is not encouraged due to regrowth of those masses (usually greater in size) and that foreign bodies can become encapsulated by granulomas. That being said, can the scarring and/or staples from the removal of the fundus cause new growth granulomas? Will this surgery inhibit my body's ability to absorb my current medications or any I may need to take in the future?

I've waited to consider having this surgery for some time as I was on a prednisone bid for roughly 13 months. I have been off of the prednisone for two months now. Should that cause any problems with being approved for this procedure? Thank you.

DC

Dr. Jossart · January 2, 2010

Sarcoidosis is not common and there are no significant reports on weight loss surgery and sarcoidosis. However, the lung condition usually worsens with increasing weight and weight loss will help. Weight loss surgery is more risky in someone who is or who has been on steroids(due to poor healing), so it is probably a good idea to choose a procedure that is less complex and risk such as the VSG or even a band. Medications will be absorbed and most likely all of your diagnosis will improve or resolve depending on how much weight you lose.