Need questions answered if possible

[txokie 0]

Hi all. I have a major problem. I had a LapBand about two years ago. I developed complications and had to have the port removed because it was coming to the surface and becoming infected. Is this normal?

I had the port removed a few weeks ago and am scheduled to have a new one put in later this month. The problem is that the insurance changed rules and I have to pay a $250 copay up front at the surgery center.

Unfortunately, I don’t have the $250 for this surgery. I can’t get it from anyone and the surgery center must have it for me to have the surgery.

I need to know what danger I am in if I wait about three months to put the port back in. The surgeon has already told me it will be a constant source of infection if it doesn’t go back in. What can I do to prevent it?

I have been having MAJOR gas discomfort (I assume that is what it is) since the surgery to remove the port. These are sharp pains in my abdominal area. I am “guzzling” gas pills which work only part of the time. Will this even go away with the new port?

I would really appreciate any advice/comments.

Thanks so much!

txokie

[MacMadame 81]

Port infections are thought to sometime cause erosion. Erosion is very serious -- if it happens, you've lost your band and can't have another.

Please do what you can to have this taken care of ASAP!

Also, if you post in the Complications forum, you will find a bunch of people who have already gone through this who can give you good advice.