Re: for Jo Ann - Lap vs. Open

July 5, 2001

>

> " I was planning on having lap surgery; however, after

> >reading all the posts, I think I've changed my mind.

> >I'm not too concerned about having a bikini figure so

> >I don't really care about the scar. my biggest

> >concern is the anesthesia - I don't want to be under

> >any longer than necessary. I don't mind spending a

> >couple of extra days in the hospital!! "

I totally agree with Kathie that you should discuss your particular

needs and situation with the surgeon. I had lap DS and my operation

(the DS AND gallbladder removal, which I had begged to have removed

beforehand b/c of troubles the huge gallstones were causing me) was

only three hours long (with Dr. Gagner or Mt Sinai). I was not under

for any extended period of time. My situation may be very different

from yours, though. I had a starting bmi of 45, had no previous

abdominal surgeries, existing hernias, etc. For me, lap was the best

option and I chose my surgeon based on his technical abilities and

talent with laparoscopic BPD/DS.

I can totally understand where someone whose surgeon would anticipate

a longer anesthesia time, possible complications, extended repairs,

etc. would choose open over lap. However, lap surgery *can be* a

highly efficient and complication-free choice for many individuals.

It is not merely an issue of wanting to look good in a bikini (hey - I

have seven little dots on my belly -- I'm sure they look just was

weird as one long scar would! LOL). The reasons for choosing lap

over open are not merely superficial. Surgeon skill/experience is a

major issue with lap surgery and each individual's needs and health

are an issue as to whether laparoscopic surgery would be best for

them. If your surgeon feels confident that you are an excellent

candidate then, of course, it is in the end up to you, but I would

think that he/she thinks it would be a viable option. Of course,

there are NO guarantees about anything re complications, etc. But, I

sincerely believe they can happen in open procedures as well.

all the best,

TEresa

lap ds with gallbladder removal

January 25, 2001

five months post-op and still feelin' fab!

pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 4

Recommended Posts