Question about narrow esophagus

[phenry 0]

Hi everybody! Here is my question and I am hoping that someone can maybe tell me if they had a narrow esophagus opening and had the lap band surgery. I have been approved...I have a surgery date of June 12th. Last year I had a study done on my esophagus because I had difficulty in swallowing. Sometimes food would just get stuck and I would have to wait for it to go on down. I guess this has been in the back of my mind but I haven't addressed it with the surgeon yet, and well, nobody ever asked if I had a swallowing problem throughout this entire process. Not making any excuses...it's just that other people surely have this condition, and I am wondering how much it would affect me with a band in place. I of course will speak to my surgeons office this week and ask this question, but I was thinking maybe someone out there has some info for me. When I was found to have this condition, the gastro whatever doc widened the opening with a balloon. I don't know how long that will last. Maybe forever...maybe not. Maybe once I get the band and if the opening narrows again..they just open it again. I'm just not sure if this may be a reason to NOT get the band. I would hate that because I really fear any other type of surgery.

[RestlessMonkey 7]

I'd really check with the surgeon on this one. I am sure you want the band badly but I can tell you having something stuck is bad enough (as you know)...add to that a narrowed opening into your stomach and you are looking at many different POTENTIAL problems. Check with your surgeon; if s/he is well experienced, your issue may be dealt with (less fill, etc)

Good luck; I think you're smart to address it now!

[phenry 0]

Thanks for your input RM. I agree totally, having food stuck is a bad feeling without the band, with the band...I can only imagine. By the way...I love San Antonio...one of my favorite cities.

[RestlessMonkey 7]

Thanks! SA's ok...except for in July and August! :tt2:

Anyway I hope it all works out for you!