I'm not clear on Erosion

[neenagh 0]

Hi Everyone,

I am still trying to figure out what erosion is exactly. Does a hole erode in your stomach?!? Does the band erode? Is it the end of having a lap band?

Probably dumb questions, but I just don't get it.:cry

Thanks!

[pplqueen 0]

the band starts to erode through your stomach. happens less than 1% of the time so my doctor said. usually a couple of years out.

[neenagh 0]

Hi pplqueen, Thanks for clearing that up! sounds kinda scary....did he say if that means the band has to come out? forever? is your stomach messed up forever?

Thanks

[pplqueen 0]

I don't think it means either. It depends on how bad it is. Could be repositioned or taken out and replaced later........... Don't worry about it.

[Penni60 45]

Erosion = The band can erode into your stomach and it can seal off the hole and not require immediate attention. ON the other hand WHY would you want to keep something that is plugging a hole in your stomach? I eroded after 18 months. I have heard of people eroding after 1 year. It varies. The stats are still quoted as 1 - 3 % of cases.

The band should come out if Erosion is diagnosed. It isn't always an emergent situation. It could wait but why take that chance?

The erosion can develop either inside the stomach due to an ulcer or infection or it can develop on the outside of the stomach due to an irritated stitch, infection, or improper placement causing rubbing to occur and thus breaking down the area.

Erosion can only be diagnosed conclusively with an Endoscopy. If an Erosion is diagnosed a band surgeon that is well experienced in band removal should be considered. Not only are they removing the band but they are repairing any damage to the stomach that was caused by the erosion. Keep this in mind when having the band removed.

Hope this helps.

[neenagh 0]

Thanks Penni. did you have the band replaced after you healed?

[Penni60 45]

Neenagh, I had to wait at least 6 months before I could even think about replacing the band. It has been that length of time now and I go see my band doc on Tuesday. We will most likely discuss my options as I am still gaining. OY VEY!!

Also, my insurance will NOT cover the band and I don't have the extra money to pay for another one so I doubt a band is in my future right now.

[neenagh 0]

oh penni, i am sorry. I hope you manage to keep up your good work without the band.

thanks for the info.

[luv2luv 0]

penni, i'm sorry that happened.. did you have any symptoms associated with the band eroding? this happens to be one of my fears as well.

[Penni60 45]

I had ZERO symptoms. Some lose restriction I never did. I had HIGH restriction to the point I thought I had slipped so they removed all the fill from my band then they found the Erosion when they did the Endoscopy.

[luv2luv 0]

ZERO SYMPTOMS!! that is so scary. that is the only thing that makes me want to say forget it! forget it! i know the stats are like 1-3% correct? so, the likelihood of it happening to me is pretty slim but, still...so if you would have never had the endoscopy done, what would have happened? Does eroding of the band cause death? well penni, i'm so sorry this has happened. ( i just read your newest thread) continue to stand and don't give up!!! you are going to make it!!!!

[neenagh 0]

Penni60

God bless, and thanks for answering my irritating questions, when you have so much on your mind.