port problem

[Monty 0]

I have been fighting an ifection on top of my port for a couple of months. I should say I was banded in 2005. I had several incision infections but it all clearded up. Then I moved from Kentucky where I had the surgery back to Texas and I have not had a lap-band doctor since then. I have lost very slowly about 100lbs. in 2 years without any fills. The doctor the lapband people referred me to now isn't taking new patients and other drs. won't see people they didn't do surgery on. So my GP has been treating me for this infection. Now this wound is hurting and I'm not sure what to do. I am kind of scared!

[LiseSeattle 0]

just curious - how would you know if it is an infection or just "typical" pain in the port area?

[ywilson 0]

I am sure that whatever the problem is, it can be easily resolved. There are several things that you may be able to do. Try contacting (via phone) the doctor that did your surgery and explain to him/her what problems you have been experiencing. See if he/she can refer offer you any suggestions as to what the problem may be and see if they can refer you to a bariactric doctor in your area that may be able to see you. You can also try contacting the doctor that you were refered to in your area to see if they have a doctor that they refer any runoff patients to. Lastly, I have not been banded yet, however, I will be banded by a Dr. in Mexico. I did ask if they had a follow up care facility that they could refer me to and they stated that they could. Check and see if there is a Fill Center USA in your area. There is link on Dr. Ortiz's lapband website (ObesityControlCenter.com) They have about 50 in the US that specialize in fills and they also cater to people who have been banded out of the country. Don't be scared (easier said than done). It will all work out. Keep us posted.

[MerryHearted 20]

Monty, did you find a doc? You need to be careful with a port infection.

I'd push hard to find a band doc to treat you, even if you have to travel out of town to do it -- do you have any other cities within a day's drive that might have a band surgeon available?

[shortgal 5]

Call your original surgeon first for advice. Consider taking a long weekend and driving or flying in to see him/her.

[hopeinapril 1]

I don't mean to come across as rude, but don't you think this post would have been better in the "post-operative" section as opposed to the "introductions"????

[pippinje 0]

I don't mean to come across as rude, but don't you think this post would have been better in the "post-operative" section as opposed to the "introductions"????

It's their first post, so they probably haven't gotten a chance to feel out the forum yet.

I have been fighting an ifection on top of my port for a couple of months. I should say I was banded in 2005. I had several incision infections but it all clearded up. Then I moved from Kentucky where I had the surgery back to Texas and I have not had a lap-band doctor since then. I have lost very slowly about 100lbs. in 2 years without any fills. The doctor the lapband people referred me to now isn't taking new patients and other drs. won't see people they didn't do surgery on. So my GP has been treating me for this infection. Now this wound is hurting and I'm not sure what to do. I am kind of scared!

I would definately try to get back to Kentucky. Something scared me about the fact that you have had all these infections in your port area. I would have a barium swalllow to make sure everything is ok with your band. Thant's just my opinion though. Good luck!

[lapbandbarb 0]

Congradulations on your weight loss thus far. I am in the process of getting authorization and seeing your progress in such a short time is encouraging! Have you had any problems at all? The person from Kentucky with the problems really scared me! You seem to know alot. Keep up the good work and wish me luck!