Re: Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 8/9/01 6:26:00 PM, duodenalswitch writes:

<< Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open gallbladder

in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck, Meli

>>

Meli: I agree that previous adhesions, etc. should not be a major impediment

to getting the DS, even if it is open instead of laparoscopic (this has

happened where the patient wanted lap but the surgeon switched to open due to

adhesions).

I know of one person who had extensive adhesions and Dr. GAgner, after much

effort, had to give her a RNY instead of a DS (he did everything

laparoscopically). She was very upset about this but she was informed

beforehand that this was a possibility.

All the best,

lap ds with gallbladder removal

January 25, 2001

Dr. GAgner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 45

now: 228

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 8/10/01 8:45:12 AM Eastern Daylight Time,

joostema@... writes:

> . I have this overall impression that life after an

> RNY is hell, and

> I can't seem to shake it.

>

Donna, I know a lot of women who have had the RNY and are very satisified

with both the procedure and their eating lifestyle. If I couldn't have the

DS, I would do the RNY in a heartbeat. I personally don't believe it is a

bad surgery at all. I just chose the DS because I do not want to gain weight

back down the road after all of the hard work and sacrifice I will make.When

I was waiting for insurance approval I decided that if they denied me the Ds,

I was going with the RNY. Anything is better than being like this.

Fyi, I've had a c-section (emergency) and my surgeon is aware of this. He

never said anything about not being able to do the DS because of adhesions.

It could make the surgery more difficult but he didn't say that it couldn't

be done.

Sherry

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 8/10/01 8:45:12 AM Eastern Daylight Time,

joostema@... writes:

> . I have this overall impression that life after an

> RNY is hell, and

> I can't seem to shake it.

>

Donna, I know a lot of women who have had the RNY and are very satisified

with both the procedure and their eating lifestyle. If I couldn't have the

DS, I would do the RNY in a heartbeat. I personally don't believe it is a

bad surgery at all. I just chose the DS because I do not want to gain weight

back down the road after all of the hard work and sacrifice I will make.When

I was waiting for insurance approval I decided that if they denied me the Ds,

I was going with the RNY. Anything is better than being like this.

Fyi, I've had a c-section (emergency) and my surgeon is aware of this. He

never said anything about not being able to do the DS because of adhesions.

It could make the surgery more difficult but he didn't say that it couldn't

be done.

Sherry

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 8/10/01 9:30:13 AM Eastern Daylight Time,

joostema@... writes:

> having undergone

> so many open abdominal surgeries in the past, it is a hard thing to swallow

> as I know exactly how I'll feel

> when I wake up ... ugh ...

>

Lol, please don't say it! My open DS is in less than two weeks!

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 8/10/01 9:30:13 AM Eastern Daylight Time,

joostema@... writes:

> having undergone

> so many open abdominal surgeries in the past, it is a hard thing to swallow

> as I know exactly how I'll feel

> when I wake up ... ugh ...

>

Lol, please don't say it! My open DS is in less than two weeks!

[Guest guest]

,

Okay ... this will probably sound like a really stupid question, but I've

got to ask anyway :-)

All of my abdominal surgeries have been below the waist. I would think

then that all of the

adhesion problems would be located down south (might be mistaken about

this). But if that

is the case, and the major difference between the RNY and the DS is the

work around the

duodenal area, wouldn't that mean that the likelihood of having to switch

would be

minimal ? What if your lower bowel area (sigmoid colon) is where there

are many

adhesions ...I guess this is below where the 'common channel' gets created,

and that

wouldn't be a problem ?

I know I'll have to make sure the surgeon is aware of all of this so that I

can go into this

with the right expectations.

I guess what really bothers me is that I don't know that I would opt to

have the RNY if

I couldn't have the DS. I have this overall impression that life after an

RNY is hell, and

I can't seem to shake it.

Maybe I need to do some more research in the area of RNY before I state I

would

rather do nothing than do this. I would really love to hear anyone's

opinions on this.

Bye,

Donna

ruisha@...

To: duodenalswitch

08/09/2001 cc:

06:52 PM Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

In a message dated 8/9/01 6:26:00 PM, duodenalswitch

writes:

<< Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open gallbladder

in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck, Meli

>>

Meli: I agree that previous adhesions, etc. should not be a major

impediment

to getting the DS, even if it is open instead of laparoscopic (this has

happened where the patient wanted lap but the surgeon switched to open due

to

adhesions).

I know of one person who had extensive adhesions and Dr. GAgner, after much

effort, had to give her a RNY instead of a DS (he did everything

laparoscopically). She was very upset about this but she was informed

beforehand that this was a possibility.

All the best,

lap ds with gallbladder removal

January 25, 2001

Dr. GAgner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 45

now: 228

----------------------------------------------------------------------

[Guest guest]

,

Okay ... this will probably sound like a really stupid question, but I've

got to ask anyway :-)

All of my abdominal surgeries have been below the waist. I would think

then that all of the

adhesion problems would be located down south (might be mistaken about

this). But if that

is the case, and the major difference between the RNY and the DS is the

work around the

duodenal area, wouldn't that mean that the likelihood of having to switch

would be

minimal ? What if your lower bowel area (sigmoid colon) is where there

are many

adhesions ...I guess this is below where the 'common channel' gets created,

and that

wouldn't be a problem ?

I know I'll have to make sure the surgeon is aware of all of this so that I

can go into this

with the right expectations.

I guess what really bothers me is that I don't know that I would opt to

have the RNY if

I couldn't have the DS. I have this overall impression that life after an

RNY is hell, and

I can't seem to shake it.

Maybe I need to do some more research in the area of RNY before I state I

would

rather do nothing than do this. I would really love to hear anyone's

opinions on this.

Bye,

Donna

ruisha@...

To: duodenalswitch

08/09/2001 cc:

06:52 PM Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

In a message dated 8/9/01 6:26:00 PM, duodenalswitch

writes:

<< Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open gallbladder

in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck, Meli

>>

Meli: I agree that previous adhesions, etc. should not be a major

impediment

to getting the DS, even if it is open instead of laparoscopic (this has

happened where the patient wanted lap but the surgeon switched to open due

to

adhesions).

I know of one person who had extensive adhesions and Dr. GAgner, after much

effort, had to give her a RNY instead of a DS (he did everything

laparoscopically). She was very upset about this but she was informed

beforehand that this was a possibility.

All the best,

lap ds with gallbladder removal

January 25, 2001

Dr. GAgner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 45

now: 228

----------------------------------------------------------------------

[Guest guest]

Meli,

Hi !! Thanks so much for the post ... you said exactly what I wanted to

hear, and whether

or not it holds to be true, at least I'll have some peace for today. I've

had 2 c-sections,

an abdominal hysterectomy, an appendectomy/right ovary removal, colon

surgery for

diverticulitis, and then last year, they had to go back in (via

c-section/hysterectomy

incision) and remove the left ovary. The only 'upper' body (above the

waist) surgery

I've had was a breast reduction 7 years ago (after losing 85 pounds and

looking absolutely

wonderful and SOOOOOO sure I would NEVER allow myself to put the weight

back

on ..... you know how that song goes !). I think it would've been much

easier had

they just made one incision and hooked me up to a vacuum and sucked

everything

out .... there's not much left as it is !!

Thanks again, Meli, and a big fat hug !!

Bye,

Donna

lionrampart1@y

ahoo.com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/09/2001 Subject:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

04:21 PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open gallbladder

in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck, Meli

-- In duodenalswitch@y..., " Donna Joostema " <joostema@u...> wrote:

> Cindy,

>

> I'm glad for you that Darryl was polite and helpful, but in my

wildest

> dreams, I could never use those two words

> to describe him, and when I conjur up mental images, well, let's

just say

> there are multiple heads, tails, talons, etc. :-)

>

> I had my visit with my PCP today to begin the ball rolling. I am

fortunate

> in that he stands behind my decision, but

> wants me to see two other doctors for their opinion (I have had

multiple

> adbominal surgeries, and he wants to make

> sure the adhesions aren't an issue). I can respect that, and will

do this,

> knowing that my doctor will help me fight

> Cigna. My insurance HAS approved women to go out of state and have

the lap

> BPD/DS. I figure I'll illicit an attorney

> to help from the beginning to hopefully cut through the insurance

bs. I

> can use all the luck/prayers I can get !! I have

> a feeling I'm in for a bumpy ride.

>

> Bye,

> Donna

>

>

> Donna C. Joostema

>

> (T/L) 444-7949

> WES Build Support

> email: joostema@u...

>

>

>

>

>

Cinloo59@a...

> om To:

duodenalswitch@y...

>

cc:

> 08/09/2001 Subject: Re:

Re: Calling all Dr. Ren Patients!

> 11:15

AM

> Please

respond

>

to

>

duodenalswitch

>

>

>

>

>

> Hi Donna

>

> I have Cigna now and I may have been the bug that got Darryl off and

> running.

> I have been in contact with him on quite a few occasions and he has

always

> been polite and helpful, but the problem seems to be Cigna. It is

not an

> insurance company that gives easily and Darryl has had quite a few

cases

> that

> are still open and going through appeal after appeal. Let's put it

this

> way...he HATES dealing with Cigna and yes, while they do approve a

case

> here

> and there for lap DS's....make no mistake....you are going to be in

for the

>

> fight of your life with them. Darryl told me the same thing....go

to the

> insurance company and get pre certed...no such animal can be done

and he

> knows it....I have opted to try to change my insurance because I

have

> already

> dealt with Cigna in a short time and they are hell on wheels. You

must be

> careful because if you do any tests that are only because of the

surgery

> and

> then you are denied, you will be liable for paying for those tests

out of

> pocket. I have been told by Cigna that they would be happy to pay

for any

> surgery if you want it done open....maybe yes maybe no to

that....but lap

> is

> a different story....It also seem that Cigna out west is more open

to

> approving wls....I'm not sure why that is but here on the east

coast, they

> have their heads in the sand....I wish you luck..

>

> Cindy

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Meli,

Hi !! Thanks so much for the post ... you said exactly what I wanted to

hear, and whether

or not it holds to be true, at least I'll have some peace for today. I've

had 2 c-sections,

an abdominal hysterectomy, an appendectomy/right ovary removal, colon

surgery for

diverticulitis, and then last year, they had to go back in (via

c-section/hysterectomy

incision) and remove the left ovary. The only 'upper' body (above the

waist) surgery

I've had was a breast reduction 7 years ago (after losing 85 pounds and

looking absolutely

wonderful and SOOOOOO sure I would NEVER allow myself to put the weight

back

on ..... you know how that song goes !). I think it would've been much

easier had

they just made one incision and hooked me up to a vacuum and sucked

everything

out .... there's not much left as it is !!

Thanks again, Meli, and a big fat hug !!

Bye,

Donna

lionrampart1@y

ahoo.com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/09/2001 Subject:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

04:21 PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open gallbladder

in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck, Meli

-- In duodenalswitch@y..., " Donna Joostema " <joostema@u...> wrote:

> Cindy,

>

> I'm glad for you that Darryl was polite and helpful, but in my

wildest

> dreams, I could never use those two words

> to describe him, and when I conjur up mental images, well, let's

just say

> there are multiple heads, tails, talons, etc. :-)

>

> I had my visit with my PCP today to begin the ball rolling. I am

fortunate

> in that he stands behind my decision, but

> wants me to see two other doctors for their opinion (I have had

multiple

> adbominal surgeries, and he wants to make

> sure the adhesions aren't an issue). I can respect that, and will

do this,

> knowing that my doctor will help me fight

> Cigna. My insurance HAS approved women to go out of state and have

the lap

> BPD/DS. I figure I'll illicit an attorney

> to help from the beginning to hopefully cut through the insurance

bs. I

> can use all the luck/prayers I can get !! I have

> a feeling I'm in for a bumpy ride.

>

> Bye,

> Donna

>

>

> Donna C. Joostema

>

> (T/L) 444-7949

> WES Build Support

> email: joostema@u...

>

>

>

>

>

Cinloo59@a...

> om To:

duodenalswitch@y...

>

cc:

> 08/09/2001 Subject: Re:

Re: Calling all Dr. Ren Patients!

> 11:15

AM

> Please

respond

>

to

>

duodenalswitch

>

>

>

>

>

> Hi Donna

>

> I have Cigna now and I may have been the bug that got Darryl off and

> running.

> I have been in contact with him on quite a few occasions and he has

always

> been polite and helpful, but the problem seems to be Cigna. It is

not an

> insurance company that gives easily and Darryl has had quite a few

cases

> that

> are still open and going through appeal after appeal. Let's put it

this

> way...he HATES dealing with Cigna and yes, while they do approve a

case

> here

> and there for lap DS's....make no mistake....you are going to be in

for the

>

> fight of your life with them. Darryl told me the same thing....go

to the

> insurance company and get pre certed...no such animal can be done

and he

> knows it....I have opted to try to change my insurance because I

have

> already

> dealt with Cigna in a short time and they are hell on wheels. You

must be

> careful because if you do any tests that are only because of the

surgery

> and

> then you are denied, you will be liable for paying for those tests

out of

> pocket. I have been told by Cigna that they would be happy to pay

for any

> surgery if you want it done open....maybe yes maybe no to

that....but lap

> is

> a different story....It also seem that Cigna out west is more open

to

> approving wls....I'm not sure why that is but here on the east

coast, they

> have their heads in the sand....I wish you luck..

>

> Cindy

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

...I guess this is below where the 'common channel' gets created,

and that

wouldn't be a problem ?

I know I'll have to make sure the surgeon is aware of all of this so that I

can go into this

with the right expectations.

I guess what really bothers me is that I don't know that I would opt to

have the RNY if

I couldn't have the DS. I have this overall impression that life after an

RNY is hell, and

I can't seem to shake it.>>>>>>

DONNA: I only know of one person who had the RNY i/o the DS and this

decision was made in surgery due to her extensive adhesions. Also, the

surgeon (Dr. Gagner) did inform her beforehand that this was a possibility.

I DO NOT think that having previous surgeries means you may get an RNY

instead of a DS! There are many instances where the adhesions were

difficult to work through and the lap surgery became longer but the person

still had a successful lap DS. Or, the surgeon *may* decide to go open if

the adhesions are too challenging. The possibility of having an open surgery

instead of lap is probably much, much more viable.

I would definately as your surgeon about these possibilities. She what

he/she says. The more experienced lap surgeon will have less chances of

converting to an open procedure because that person has seen and dealt with

complicated adhesions laparoscopically. It is a rare incident where one will

get a totally different surgery than anticipated or desired.

As far as the colon goes, it isn't touched in the surgery. The common

channel is the last 100 cm (or less) of the small intestine right before the

upper colon. If one has had lower abdominal surgeries, adhesions *may

viably* have connected to this area or present difficulties to the surgeon.

I recently read (either on this list or another) that someone experienced a

painful colonoscopy due to adhesions from the DS. So, the surgery can cause

adhesions in the lower bowel and other previous surgeries can likewise have

caused adhesions in this area.

I hope this helps a little.

all the best,

lap ds with gallbladder removal

January 25, 2001

Dr. Gagner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

six months post-op and still feelin' fabu!

pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 45

now: 228

[Guest guest]

Hi ! You bring up a lot of good points. Going open may be the best and

safest route ... having undergone

so many open abdominal surgeries in the past, it is a hard thing to swallow

as I know exactly how I'll feel

when I wake up ... ugh ...>>>>>>

Donna; YOu still may very well be able to have a laparoscopic BPD/DS!

Don't give up hope on that. I would really discuss the possibilities of

converting to open, etc. with your surgeon, though. Then, you would be

prepared for all possible options.

I was going to go with Dr. Herron in New York, but I wonder, considering

the complications

of adhesions, if I would be better off selecting Dr. Gagner as he may have

more experience

with the more complicated surgeries. Any thoughts on this would be

appreciated.>>>>>>

I know that Dr. Herron is an experienced laparoscopic surgeon. However, from

what I've seen and heard (and that isn't by any means emperical or absolute),

it appears that he is more willing to convert to open or do open under

difficult situations whereas Dr. Gagner will go lap all the way (in most

instances). I'm not saying Dr. Herron isn't good or anything like that.

Perhaps he is a bit more conservative when it comes to deciding when to

convert to open, etc. Some may see that as a positive thing - he is less

prone to take risks or undertake a potentially difficult and complicated

endeavor. However, Dr. Gagner really does prefer to go laparoscopic all the

way (even in exploratory second surgeries or second surgeries to repair

leaks/blockages, etc. whenever possible).

Personally, I would go with Gagner if you have had extensive previous

surgeries because I think he is more apt to stay laparoscopic if at all

possible. I think he may be more apt to do this in the face of

difficulties/complications than other surgeons. I mean, it *may* turn out

that Dr. Gagner would end up performing the DS open but I think he will have

tried everything laparoscopically first.

all the best,

lap ds with gallbladder removal

January 25, 2001

Dr. Gagner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

six months post-op and still feelin' fabu!

pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 45

now: 228

[Guest guest]

Bottom line is, in all the time I've been on this list, and the

countless numbers of surgeries folks have reported on, there's only

been one woman who didnt get the DS because of adhesions, and she was

a revision from a VGB. (which she had lots of problems with)

Dont worry overly much about adhesions. They're common, and good

surgeons are trained to deal with them. Meli >>>>>

Yes, Meli -- this is the same person I was referring to. Yes, she WAS a

revision from a VGB so this indeed did complicate things once they got into

surgery. I thinkt his is the main reason why Dr. Gagner stated beforehand

that an RNY might be a possibility but he wouldn't know until he actually got

in. I must note that, even though her surgery was extremely difficult (Dr.

Gagner stated it was the most complex he had ever been challenged with), it

was done completely laparoscopically. EVen her surgery to repair a

blockage/hernia and explore a leak a few days afterwards was done

laparoscopically.

all the best,

lap ds with gallbladder removal

January 25, 2001

Dr. Gagner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

six months post-op and still feelin' fabu!

pre-oP: 307 lbs/bmi 454

now: 228

[Guest guest]

Donna,

The only thing multiple abdominal surgeries may stop you doing is lap

DS. Open DS should not be a problem as they would be able to see any

adhesions or problems. Given the fact that you have had multiple

abdominal surgeries, I would recommend open DS, but that is decision

you and your doctor will have to make together! Who is your doctor ?

Have you asked them what the possibility of him giving you the RNY

instead of the DS, if you have open surgery. Don't just leave it in

the hands of your doctor to 'make the best decision for you' because

while you can't control what he/she sees inside as least you can be

fully informed of all the possibilities before hand and the

percentages..ie..98% DS, 2% RNY. Your doctor should also realize you

don't consider them interchangable and as long as you have not lost

functionality of your pylorus or duodendum due to adhesions, etc, you

want the DS. If it's open surgery, dealing with the adhesions should

not be too bad. Trying to deal with possible multiple adhesions lap

can add a lot of time to the surgery (which may end up converted to

open) and thereby have you under anesthesia longer.

Good luck and make sure you have any questions addressed before you

go into surgery!

*hugs*

Anita

> Meli,

>

> Hi !! Thanks so much for the post ... you said exactly what I

wanted to

> hear, and whether

> or not it holds to be true, at least I'll have some peace for

today. I've

> had 2 c-sections,

> an abdominal hysterectomy, an appendectomy/right ovary removal,

colon

> surgery for

> diverticulitis, and then last year, they had to go back in (via

> c-section/hysterectomy

> incision) and remove the left ovary. The only 'upper' body (above

the

> waist) surgery

> I've had was a breast reduction 7 years ago (after losing 85 pounds

and

> looking absolutely

> wonderful and SOOOOOO sure I would NEVER allow myself to put the

weight

> back

> on ..... you know how that song goes !). I think it would've

been much

> easier had

> they just made one incision and hooked me up to a vacuum and sucked

> everything

> out .... there's not much left as it is !!

>

> Thanks again, Meli, and a big fat hug !!

>

> Bye,

> Donna

>

>

>

>

> Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open gallbladder

> in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

> hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

> concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

> went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

> Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck,

Meli

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Donna,

The only thing multiple abdominal surgeries may stop you doing is lap

DS. Open DS should not be a problem as they would be able to see any

adhesions or problems. Given the fact that you have had multiple

abdominal surgeries, I would recommend open DS, but that is decision

you and your doctor will have to make together! Who is your doctor ?

Have you asked them what the possibility of him giving you the RNY

instead of the DS, if you have open surgery. Don't just leave it in

the hands of your doctor to 'make the best decision for you' because

while you can't control what he/she sees inside as least you can be

fully informed of all the possibilities before hand and the

percentages..ie..98% DS, 2% RNY. Your doctor should also realize you

don't consider them interchangable and as long as you have not lost

functionality of your pylorus or duodendum due to adhesions, etc, you

want the DS. If it's open surgery, dealing with the adhesions should

not be too bad. Trying to deal with possible multiple adhesions lap

can add a lot of time to the surgery (which may end up converted to

open) and thereby have you under anesthesia longer.

Good luck and make sure you have any questions addressed before you

go into surgery!

*hugs*

Anita

> Meli,

>

> Hi !! Thanks so much for the post ... you said exactly what I

wanted to

> hear, and whether

> or not it holds to be true, at least I'll have some peace for

today. I've

> had 2 c-sections,

> an abdominal hysterectomy, an appendectomy/right ovary removal,

colon

> surgery for

> diverticulitis, and then last year, they had to go back in (via

> c-section/hysterectomy

> incision) and remove the left ovary. The only 'upper' body (above

the

> waist) surgery

> I've had was a breast reduction 7 years ago (after losing 85 pounds

and

> looking absolutely

> wonderful and SOOOOOO sure I would NEVER allow myself to put the

weight

> back

> on ..... you know how that song goes !). I think it would've

been much

> easier had

> they just made one incision and hooked me up to a vacuum and sucked

> everything

> out .... there's not much left as it is !!

>

> Thanks again, Meli, and a big fat hug !!

>

> Bye,

> Donna

>

>

>

>

> Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open gallbladder

> in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

> hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

> concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

> went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

> Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck,

Meli

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Anita,

Hi ! You bring up a lot of good points. Going open may be the best and

safest route ... having undergone

so many open abdominal surgeries in the past, it is a hard thing to swallow

as I know exactly how I'll feel

when I wake up ... ugh ...

I was going to go with Dr. Herron in New York, but I wonder, considering

the complications

of adhesions, if I would be better off selecting Dr. Gagner as he may have

more experience

with the more complicated surgeries. Any thoughts on this would be

appreciated.

Bye,

Donna

" Anita "

<rowanceleste@ To: duodenalswitch

yahoo.com> cc:

Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

08/10/2001

09:20 AM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

Donna,

The only thing multiple abdominal surgeries may stop you doing is lap

DS. Open DS should not be a problem as they would be able to see any

adhesions or problems. Given the fact that you have had multiple

abdominal surgeries, I would recommend open DS, but that is decision

you and your doctor will have to make together! Who is your doctor ?

Have you asked them what the possibility of him giving you the RNY

instead of the DS, if you have open surgery. Don't just leave it in

the hands of your doctor to 'make the best decision for you' because

while you can't control what he/she sees inside as least you can be

fully informed of all the possibilities before hand and the

percentages..ie..98% DS, 2% RNY. Your doctor should also realize you

don't consider them interchangable and as long as you have not lost

functionality of your pylorus or duodendum due to adhesions, etc, you

want the DS. If it's open surgery, dealing with the adhesions should

not be too bad. Trying to deal with possible multiple adhesions lap

can add a lot of time to the surgery (which may end up converted to

open) and thereby have you under anesthesia longer.

Good luck and make sure you have any questions addressed before you

go into surgery!

*hugs*

Anita

> Meli,

>

> Hi !! Thanks so much for the post ... you said exactly what I

wanted to

> hear, and whether

> or not it holds to be true, at least I'll have some peace for

today. I've

> had 2 c-sections,

> an abdominal hysterectomy, an appendectomy/right ovary removal,

colon

> surgery for

> diverticulitis, and then last year, they had to go back in (via

> c-section/hysterectomy

> incision) and remove the left ovary. The only 'upper' body (above

the

> waist) surgery

> I've had was a breast reduction 7 years ago (after losing 85 pounds

and

> looking absolutely

> wonderful and SOOOOOO sure I would NEVER allow myself to put the

weight

> back

> on ..... you know how that song goes !). I think it would've

been much

> easier had

> they just made one incision and hooked me up to a vacuum and sucked

> everything

> out .... there's not much left as it is !!

>

> Thanks again, Meli, and a big fat hug !!

>

> Bye,

> Donna

>

>

>

>

> Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open gallbladder

> in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

> hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

> concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

> went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

> Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck,

Meli

>

>

>

----------------------------------------------------------------------

[Guest guest]

Anita,

Hi ! You bring up a lot of good points. Going open may be the best and

safest route ... having undergone

so many open abdominal surgeries in the past, it is a hard thing to swallow

as I know exactly how I'll feel

when I wake up ... ugh ...

I was going to go with Dr. Herron in New York, but I wonder, considering

the complications

of adhesions, if I would be better off selecting Dr. Gagner as he may have

more experience

with the more complicated surgeries. Any thoughts on this would be

appreciated.

Bye,

Donna

" Anita "

<rowanceleste@ To: duodenalswitch

yahoo.com> cc:

Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

08/10/2001

09:20 AM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

Donna,

The only thing multiple abdominal surgeries may stop you doing is lap

DS. Open DS should not be a problem as they would be able to see any

adhesions or problems. Given the fact that you have had multiple

abdominal surgeries, I would recommend open DS, but that is decision

you and your doctor will have to make together! Who is your doctor ?

Have you asked them what the possibility of him giving you the RNY

instead of the DS, if you have open surgery. Don't just leave it in

the hands of your doctor to 'make the best decision for you' because

while you can't control what he/she sees inside as least you can be

fully informed of all the possibilities before hand and the

percentages..ie..98% DS, 2% RNY. Your doctor should also realize you

don't consider them interchangable and as long as you have not lost

functionality of your pylorus or duodendum due to adhesions, etc, you

want the DS. If it's open surgery, dealing with the adhesions should

not be too bad. Trying to deal with possible multiple adhesions lap

can add a lot of time to the surgery (which may end up converted to

open) and thereby have you under anesthesia longer.

Good luck and make sure you have any questions addressed before you

go into surgery!

*hugs*

Anita

> Meli,

>

> Hi !! Thanks so much for the post ... you said exactly what I

wanted to

> hear, and whether

> or not it holds to be true, at least I'll have some peace for

today. I've

> had 2 c-sections,

> an abdominal hysterectomy, an appendectomy/right ovary removal,

colon

> surgery for

> diverticulitis, and then last year, they had to go back in (via

> c-section/hysterectomy

> incision) and remove the left ovary. The only 'upper' body (above

the

> waist) surgery

> I've had was a breast reduction 7 years ago (after losing 85 pounds

and

> looking absolutely

> wonderful and SOOOOOO sure I would NEVER allow myself to put the

weight

> back

> on ..... you know how that song goes !). I think it would've

been much

> easier had

> they just made one incision and hooked me up to a vacuum and sucked

> everything

> out .... there's not much left as it is !!

>

> Thanks again, Meli, and a big fat hug !!

>

> Bye,

> Donna

>

>

>

>

> Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open gallbladder

> in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

> hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

> concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

> went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

> Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck,

Meli

>

>

>

----------------------------------------------------------------------

[Guest guest]

Dr. Herron and had pretty much decided he was

the surgeon

for me ... .then I started thinking maybe I should wait for the somewhat

more experienced Dr.

Gagner due to the adhesions ... but I really don't want to chance waiting

until 2002 ... then again,

I don't want to rush into anything, so ... back and forth I go again

:-)>>>>>

Donna: It's really up to you! Dr. Herron is an experienced laparoscopic

surgeon and he will do everything in his power to perform a laparoscopic DS

for you. I don't know if statistically he has any more procedures

converted to open than Dr. Gagner --- I just think that I've noticed more

people who have had second surgeries (for blockage, leaks, etc.) that were

done open when the previous surgery was done laparoscopically. And, I've

known that he's recommended open surgeries right of the bat for some people

(could be due more to higher bmis than adhesions) rather than attempting a

laparoscopic one. I'm sure he has valid medical reasons for doing this or

preferring this in certain instances and is totally justified and has the

patient's health and well being in mind. Personally, I think he may have

differing standards of what is dangerous or not good risk for a laparoscopic

surgery as compared to Dr. GAgner.

If you haven't, try corresponding with Dr. Herron's post-ops. I'm sure they

will have plenty of good things to say about him and his skill/experience. I

think he's also really personable, something I'm sure his patients value

(many have found Dr. Gagner to be 'too quiet' or not as sympathetic as they

would like). Hearing from them may also ease your concerns about choosing

between the two surgeons. You can also keep both appointments and see Dr.

Herron in November. If you are satisfied with your meeting, have the answers

to your questions, etc. - then just cancel the appt with Dr. Gagner!

I am sure that capable, experienced lap surgeons have dealt with adhesions

without incident. And, Dr. Gagner isn't the ONLY one. I would definately

see Dr. Herron and see what he says about the adhesions, past surgeries, etc.

all the best,

lap ds with gallbladder removal

January 25, 2001

Dr. GAgner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

six months post-op and still feelin' fabu!

pre-oP: 307 lbs/bmi 45

now: 228

[Guest guest]

I've heard that about adhesions, as well. The woman who ended up not

getting the DS due

to her adhesions, do you remember if they changed over to a RNY or if she

just opted to have

nothing done if the DS couldn't be done ?>>>>>

Donna: This person's name is Sandy and I was her angel for the surgery. She

was a VGB revision but she had also had a hysterectomy and previous abdominal

surgeries. Dr. Gagner fully informed her that it was possible (and this

would be determined during the surgery) that he would be unable to perform a

DS and would have to do an RNY instead. This was all discussed beforehand.

I think that she did want a WLS surgery - Even though she wasn't keen on the

RNY I do NOT think she gave specific instructions to NOT proceed if a DS

couldn't be performed. I remember her telling me she never thought that it

would end up the way it did and she really didn't think she'd get the RNY.

She was pretty upset about it because she hadn't really prepared for it (even

though she had knowledge of it). I don't think Dr. gAgner would have gone

ahead and done something she clearly stated that she didn't want (not to

mention the legal implications of this).

all the best,

lap ds with gallbladder removal

January 25, 2001

Dr. Gagner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

Six months post-op and still feelin' fabu!

pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 45

now: 228

[Guest guest]

Donna, You'd be surprised how far adhesions can stretch around the

abdomen, even when the original surgery was isolated to one area.

Adhesions can even be found in the abdomen of one who has never had

any surgery at all. Some surgeons speculate that even a blow to the

abodomen can cause them.

Bottom line is, in all the time I've been on this list, and the

countless numbers of surgeries folks have reported on, there's only

been one woman who didnt get the DS because of adhesions, and she was

a revision from a VGB. (which she had lots of problems with)

Dont worry overly much about adhesions. They're common, and good

surgeons are trained to deal with them. Meli

-- In duodenalswitch@y..., " Donna Joostema " <joostema@u...> wrote:

> ,

>

> Okay ... this will probably sound like a really stupid question,

but I've

> got to ask anyway :-)

>

> All of my abdominal surgeries have been below the waist. I would

think

> then that all of the

> adhesion problems would be located down south (might be mistaken

about

> this). But if that

> is the case, and the major difference between the RNY and the DS is

the

> work around the

> duodenal area, wouldn't that mean that the likelihood of having to

switch

> would be

> minimal ? What if your lower bowel area (sigmoid colon) is where

there

> are many

> adhesions ...I guess this is below where the 'common channel' gets

created,

> and that

> wouldn't be a problem ?

>

> I know I'll have to make sure the surgeon is aware of all of this

so that I

> can go into this

> with the right expectations.

>

> I guess what really bothers me is that I don't know that I would

opt to

> have the RNY if

> I couldn't have the DS. I have this overall impression that life

after an

> RNY is hell, and

> I can't seem to shake it.

>

> Maybe I need to do some more research in the area of RNY before I

state I

> would

> rather do nothing than do this. I would really love to hear

anyone's

> opinions on this.

>

> Bye,

> Donna

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

ruisha@a...

> To:

duodenalswitch@y...

> 08/09/2001

cc:

> 06:52 PM Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

> Please

respond

>

to

>

duodenalswitch

>

>

>

>

>

>

> In a message dated 8/9/01 6:26:00 PM, duodenalswitch@y...

> writes:

>

> << Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open

gallbladder

>

> in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

>

> hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

>

> concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

>

> went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

>

> Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck,

Meli

>

> >>

>

> Meli: I agree that previous adhesions, etc. should not be a major

> impediment

> to getting the DS, even if it is open instead of laparoscopic (this

has

> happened where the patient wanted lap but the surgeon switched to

open due

> to

> adhesions).

>

> I know of one person who had extensive adhesions and Dr. GAgner,

after much

>

> effort, had to give her a RNY instead of a DS (he did everything

> laparoscopically). She was very upset about this but she was

informed

> beforehand that this was a possibility.

>

> All the best,

>

> lap ds with gallbladder removal

> January 25, 2001

>

> Dr. GAgner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

>

> pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 45

> now: 228

>

> --------------------------------------------------------------------

--

>

[Guest guest]

Donna, You'd be surprised how far adhesions can stretch around the

abdomen, even when the original surgery was isolated to one area.

Adhesions can even be found in the abdomen of one who has never had

any surgery at all. Some surgeons speculate that even a blow to the

abodomen can cause them.

Bottom line is, in all the time I've been on this list, and the

countless numbers of surgeries folks have reported on, there's only

been one woman who didnt get the DS because of adhesions, and she was

a revision from a VGB. (which she had lots of problems with)

Dont worry overly much about adhesions. They're common, and good

surgeons are trained to deal with them. Meli

-- In duodenalswitch@y..., " Donna Joostema " <joostema@u...> wrote:

> ,

>

> Okay ... this will probably sound like a really stupid question,

but I've

> got to ask anyway :-)

>

> All of my abdominal surgeries have been below the waist. I would

think

> then that all of the

> adhesion problems would be located down south (might be mistaken

about

> this). But if that

> is the case, and the major difference between the RNY and the DS is

the

> work around the

> duodenal area, wouldn't that mean that the likelihood of having to

switch

> would be

> minimal ? What if your lower bowel area (sigmoid colon) is where

there

> are many

> adhesions ...I guess this is below where the 'common channel' gets

created,

> and that

> wouldn't be a problem ?

>

> I know I'll have to make sure the surgeon is aware of all of this

so that I

> can go into this

> with the right expectations.

>

> I guess what really bothers me is that I don't know that I would

opt to

> have the RNY if

> I couldn't have the DS. I have this overall impression that life

after an

> RNY is hell, and

> I can't seem to shake it.

>

> Maybe I need to do some more research in the area of RNY before I

state I

> would

> rather do nothing than do this. I would really love to hear

anyone's

> opinions on this.

>

> Bye,

> Donna

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

ruisha@a...

> To:

duodenalswitch@y...

> 08/09/2001

cc:

> 06:52 PM Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

> Please

respond

>

to

>

duodenalswitch

>

>

>

>

>

>

> In a message dated 8/9/01 6:26:00 PM, duodenalswitch@y...

> writes:

>

> << Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open

gallbladder

>

> in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

>

> hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

>

> concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

>

> went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

>

> Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck,

Meli

>

> >>

>

> Meli: I agree that previous adhesions, etc. should not be a major

> impediment

> to getting the DS, even if it is open instead of laparoscopic (this

has

> happened where the patient wanted lap but the surgeon switched to

open due

> to

> adhesions).

>

> I know of one person who had extensive adhesions and Dr. GAgner,

after much

>

> effort, had to give her a RNY instead of a DS (he did everything

> laparoscopically). She was very upset about this but she was

informed

> beforehand that this was a possibility.

>

> All the best,

>

> lap ds with gallbladder removal

> January 25, 2001

>

> Dr. GAgner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

>

> pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 45

> now: 228

>

> --------------------------------------------------------------------

--

>

[Guest guest]

Meli,

I've heard that about adhesions, as well. The woman who ended up not

getting the DS due

to her adhesions, do you remember if they changed over to a RNY or if she

just opted to have

nothing done if the DS couldn't be done ?

I just called the Mt. Sinai Medical Center to see when the earliest is that

I could get an appt.

with either Dr. Gagner or Dr. Herron. I couldn't see Dr. Gagner until

after the first of the year.

Dr. Herron had an open appt. on November 15th, so I took that. I'm afraid

that Cigna may be

vamping up to change their policy (or find better ways to ensure no denials

are overturned)

for next year's policies, so I don't want to wait until after the first of

the year for an appt. I really

like what I've heard about Dr. Herron and had pretty much decided he was

the surgeon

for me ... .then I started thinking maybe I should wait for the somewhat

more experienced Dr.

Gagner due to the adhesions ... but I really don't want to chance waiting

until 2002 ... then again,

I don't want to rush into anything, so ... back and forth I go again :-)

This is enough to drive one crazy !!

*smiles*

Donna

lionrampart@ao

l.com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/2001 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

09:52 AM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

Donna, You'd be surprised how far adhesions can stretch around the

abdomen, even when the original surgery was isolated to one area.

Adhesions can even be found in the abdomen of one who has never had

any surgery at all. Some surgeons speculate that even a blow to the

abodomen can cause them.

Bottom line is, in all the time I've been on this list, and the

countless numbers of surgeries folks have reported on, there's only

been one woman who didnt get the DS because of adhesions, and she was

a revision from a VGB. (which she had lots of problems with)

Dont worry overly much about adhesions. They're common, and good

surgeons are trained to deal with them. Meli

-- In duodenalswitch@y..., " Donna Joostema " <joostema@u...> wrote:

> ,

>

> Okay ... this will probably sound like a really stupid question,

but I've

> got to ask anyway :-)

>

> All of my abdominal surgeries have been below the waist. I would

think

> then that all of the

> adhesion problems would be located down south (might be mistaken

about

> this). But if that

> is the case, and the major difference between the RNY and the DS is

the

> work around the

> duodenal area, wouldn't that mean that the likelihood of having to

switch

> would be

> minimal ? What if your lower bowel area (sigmoid colon) is where

there

> are many

> adhesions ...I guess this is below where the 'common channel' gets

created,

> and that

> wouldn't be a problem ?

>

> I know I'll have to make sure the surgeon is aware of all of this

so that I

> can go into this

> with the right expectations.

>

> I guess what really bothers me is that I don't know that I would

opt to

> have the RNY if

> I couldn't have the DS. I have this overall impression that life

after an

> RNY is hell, and

> I can't seem to shake it.

>

> Maybe I need to do some more research in the area of RNY before I

state I

> would

> rather do nothing than do this. I would really love to hear

anyone's

> opinions on this.

>

> Bye,

> Donna

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

ruisha@a...

> To:

duodenalswitch@y...

> 08/09/2001

cc:

> 06:52 PM Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

> Please

respond

>

to

>

duodenalswitch

>

>

>

>

>

>

> In a message dated 8/9/01 6:26:00 PM, duodenalswitch@y...

> writes:

>

> << Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open

gallbladder

>

> in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

>

> hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

>

> concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

>

> went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

>

> Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck,

Meli

>

> >>

>

> Meli: I agree that previous adhesions, etc. should not be a major

> impediment

> to getting the DS, even if it is open instead of laparoscopic (this

has

> happened where the patient wanted lap but the surgeon switched to

open due

> to

> adhesions).

>

> I know of one person who had extensive adhesions and Dr. GAgner,

after much

>

> effort, had to give her a RNY instead of a DS (he did everything

> laparoscopically). She was very upset about this but she was

informed

> beforehand that this was a possibility.

>

> All the best,

>

> lap ds with gallbladder removal

> January 25, 2001

>

> Dr. GAgner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

>

> pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 45

> now: 228

>

> --------------------------------------------------------------------

--

>

[Guest guest]

Meli,

I've heard that about adhesions, as well. The woman who ended up not

getting the DS due

to her adhesions, do you remember if they changed over to a RNY or if she

just opted to have

nothing done if the DS couldn't be done ?

I just called the Mt. Sinai Medical Center to see when the earliest is that

I could get an appt.

with either Dr. Gagner or Dr. Herron. I couldn't see Dr. Gagner until

after the first of the year.

Dr. Herron had an open appt. on November 15th, so I took that. I'm afraid

that Cigna may be

vamping up to change their policy (or find better ways to ensure no denials

are overturned)

for next year's policies, so I don't want to wait until after the first of

the year for an appt. I really

like what I've heard about Dr. Herron and had pretty much decided he was

the surgeon

for me ... .then I started thinking maybe I should wait for the somewhat

more experienced Dr.

Gagner due to the adhesions ... but I really don't want to chance waiting

until 2002 ... then again,

I don't want to rush into anything, so ... back and forth I go again :-)

This is enough to drive one crazy !!

*smiles*

Donna

lionrampart@ao

l.com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/2001 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

09:52 AM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

Donna, You'd be surprised how far adhesions can stretch around the

abdomen, even when the original surgery was isolated to one area.

Adhesions can even be found in the abdomen of one who has never had

any surgery at all. Some surgeons speculate that even a blow to the

abodomen can cause them.

Bottom line is, in all the time I've been on this list, and the

countless numbers of surgeries folks have reported on, there's only

been one woman who didnt get the DS because of adhesions, and she was

a revision from a VGB. (which she had lots of problems with)

Dont worry overly much about adhesions. They're common, and good

surgeons are trained to deal with them. Meli

-- In duodenalswitch@y..., " Donna Joostema " <joostema@u...> wrote:

> ,

>

> Okay ... this will probably sound like a really stupid question,

but I've

> got to ask anyway :-)

>

> All of my abdominal surgeries have been below the waist. I would

think

> then that all of the

> adhesion problems would be located down south (might be mistaken

about

> this). But if that

> is the case, and the major difference between the RNY and the DS is

the

> work around the

> duodenal area, wouldn't that mean that the likelihood of having to

switch

> would be

> minimal ? What if your lower bowel area (sigmoid colon) is where

there

> are many

> adhesions ...I guess this is below where the 'common channel' gets

created,

> and that

> wouldn't be a problem ?

>

> I know I'll have to make sure the surgeon is aware of all of this

so that I

> can go into this

> with the right expectations.

>

> I guess what really bothers me is that I don't know that I would

opt to

> have the RNY if

> I couldn't have the DS. I have this overall impression that life

after an

> RNY is hell, and

> I can't seem to shake it.

>

> Maybe I need to do some more research in the area of RNY before I

state I

> would

> rather do nothing than do this. I would really love to hear

anyone's

> opinions on this.

>

> Bye,

> Donna

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

ruisha@a...

> To:

duodenalswitch@y...

> 08/09/2001

cc:

> 06:52 PM Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

> Please

respond

>

to

>

duodenalswitch

>

>

>

>

>

>

> In a message dated 8/9/01 6:26:00 PM, duodenalswitch@y...

> writes:

>

> << Donna, I to have had multiple abdominal surgeries- Open

gallbladder

>

> in 1988, hernia repairs twice, VGB (open) in 1994, and vaginal

>

> hysterectomy in 2000. whew!! My surgeon, Dr Hess, wasnt terribly

>

> concerned. He said he was pleasantly surprised at how easy it all

>

> went despite some adhesions that had to be dealt with.

>

> Dont worry, it wont stop you from getting the DS. Best of luck,

Meli

>

> >>

>

> Meli: I agree that previous adhesions, etc. should not be a major

> impediment

> to getting the DS, even if it is open instead of laparoscopic (this

has

> happened where the patient wanted lap but the surgeon switched to

open due

> to

> adhesions).

>

> I know of one person who had extensive adhesions and Dr. GAgner,

after much

>

> effort, had to give her a RNY instead of a DS (he did everything

> laparoscopically). She was very upset about this but she was

informed

> beforehand that this was a possibility.

>

> All the best,

>

> lap ds with gallbladder removal

> January 25, 2001

>

> Dr. GAgner/Mt. Sinai/NYC

>

> pre-op: 307 lbs/bmi 45

> now: 228

>

> --------------------------------------------------------------------

--

>

[Guest guest]

heelo, you said that you have had many abdominal surgeries in the

past did each of them involve cutting through the muscle or were

there just skin cuts? I myself had 9 stomach operation in less then

two years only one of those involved cutting throught the muscle. On

july 31 I under went the duodenal switch and I was thankful I had the

other surgeries in the past for they taught me how to get out of bed

and other simple does and don't after stomach surgery. I am still in

pain but I was able to hold off for 12 hours today before I had to

take something for it, so I know I am on the road to recovery. feel

good and I know how hard it is not to get nervous but try to remain

relaxed it will help in the end. jan

> In a message dated 8/10/01 9:30:13 AM Eastern Daylight Time,

> joostema@u... writes:

>

>

> > having undergone

> > so many open abdominal surgeries in the past, it is a hard thing

to swallow

> > as I know exactly how I'll feel

> > when I wake up ... ugh ...

> >

>

> Lol, please don't say it! My open DS is in less than two weeks!

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

heelo, you said that you have had many abdominal surgeries in the

past did each of them involve cutting through the muscle or were

there just skin cuts? I myself had 9 stomach operation in less then

two years only one of those involved cutting throught the muscle. On

july 31 I under went the duodenal switch and I was thankful I had the

other surgeries in the past for they taught me how to get out of bed

and other simple does and don't after stomach surgery. I am still in

pain but I was able to hold off for 12 hours today before I had to

take something for it, so I know I am on the road to recovery. feel

good and I know how hard it is not to get nervous but try to remain

relaxed it will help in the end. jan

> In a message dated 8/10/01 9:30:13 AM Eastern Daylight Time,

> joostema@u... writes:

>

>

> > having undergone

> > so many open abdominal surgeries in the past, it is a hard thing

to swallow

> > as I know exactly how I'll feel

> > when I wake up ... ugh ...

> >

>

> Lol, please don't say it! My open DS is in less than two weeks!

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hello

one of the reason that my surgeon decided to do the ds was because of

the fact I was going to have a lot of scare tissure from a blotched

vbg surgery. My adhesions were getting so painful that I was taking

something everother day to control the pain. I opted for the open

procedure instead of the lap because of the adhesions, ths way the

surgeon could remove as many of them as possible.

> In a message dated 8/10/01 8:45:12 AM Eastern Daylight Time,

> joostema@u... writes:

>

>

> > . I have this overall impression that life after an

> > RNY is hell, and

> > I can't seem to shake it.

> >

>

> Donna, I know a lot of women who have had the RNY and are very

satisified

> with both the procedure and their eating lifestyle. If I couldn't

have the

> DS, I would do the RNY in a heartbeat. I personally don't believe

it is a

> bad surgery at all. I just chose the DS because I do not want to

gain weight

> back down the road after all of the hard work and sacrifice I will

make.When

> I was waiting for insurance approval I decided that if they denied

me the Ds,

> I was going with the RNY. Anything is better than being like this.

>

> Fyi, I've had a c-section (emergency) and my surgeon is aware of

this. He

> never said anything about not being able to do the DS because of

adhesions.

> It could make the surgery more difficult but he didn't say that it

couldn't

> be done.

>

> Sherry

>

>

>