Hello Banders; Please read, I need help.

Texas Pork · July 4, 2008

As of this writing I am scheduled to have surgery August 2008.

Nine years ago I had reflux surgery where they wrap the top portion of the stomach around the esophagus and stitch it together to prevent acid from going back up.

I am told they will have to undo this procedure in order to install the band. I am concerned about my reflux coming back. Has anyone had reflux surgery before having the lap band put in place. Please tell me about it. Thanks dctk@earthlink.net

Shinyhappymommy · July 4, 2008

I had severe reflux that was controlled by Nexium before surgery. Now, 5 months out I'm taking nothing and have no reflux at all. I think if you're getting reflux with the band you're probably filled too tight.

Texas Pork · July 4, 2008

I had severe reflux that was controlled by Nexium before surgery. Now, 5 months out I'm taking nothing and have no reflux at all. I think if you're getting reflux with the band you're probably filled too tight.

My reflux could not be controlled with Nexium or any other med. Dr. said have the surgery soon before SERIOUS problems arose. I'm thinking he was referring to esophagus cancer. Thanks for the reply.

ladybug_238 · July 4, 2008

Hi I was banded 1 week ago and my doctor told me that when they get in there to do the surgery if my opening in my diaghram is too large they stitch it to make it smaller. he said that is the main cause of reflux. He said if they ever find this they always repair it because that is the main source of complications with the band. If the stomach is able to move up into the esophagus they repair that so i think that you are alright. I know they repaired mine while they were in there. I'm not sure if the procedure is the same as what you had but it sounds to me like you should be ok with the band and it may be a good thing that you already have this done. I'm certainly no medical expert and probably have no clue what I'm talking about but i thought that I would share this with you and maybe you can make a little more sense out of it.

Texas Pork · July 4, 2008

Thanks for the reply. Everyone's opinion will help with my decision.

goofygirl883 · July 4, 2008

For at least 8 years I had severe reflux before the band. I was warned that the band may make reflux worse. For me it did get worse, with a trip to the ER recently for a total unfill but they doubled my meds and now I feel much better!! Talk to your regular MD and your surgeon. It's good to see what both say. I'm lucky that my regular MD was a GI specialist when he was younger. Good luck!!