Re: Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

[Guest guest]

Sherry,

Thanks for your post. I know I should look at it (RNY versus nothing) the

way you did. I think I'm just 'antsy' because

I'm in the early early stages of getting this done and overwith, and

everything just seems to be a stress point for me.

I need to just calm down and go with the flow a little more ... but

that'll never happen :-)

Bye,

Donna

GABS12992 (AT) Aol (DOT)

com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/2001 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

11:23 AM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

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]

You'll do just fine !!! I did with all of the surgeries I've undergone

.... and they didn't produce such

positive reinforcement like seeing the scale go in the opposite direction

!!! Discomfort and pain

from surgery is temporary ... discomfort and pain from our weight is much

more intense ! You'll

do great, and I wish you the best of luck.

Donna

GABS12992 (AT) Aol (DOT)

com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/2001 Subject: Re: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

11:25 AM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

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]

My surgeries, unfortunately, cut through muscle, but like you, this does

mean that if I end up

having to go the 'open' route, I too will be prepared :-)

How are you feeling now that you're out 10 days ? Was it what you

expected ? Who performed

your surgery ? I hope you continue feeling well !!

Donna

janabbott@yaho

o.com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/2001 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

12:20 PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

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]

There was someone else who told me that should I end up having to go open,

they may

actually be able to clean out some of the old adhesions. I know how they

can pull and cause

discomfort as I have one region that I think is all glued together !!

It's just wonderful, isn't it :-)

Donna C. Joostema

(T/L) 444-7949

WES Build Support

email: joostema@...

janabbott@yaho

o.com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/2001 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

12:24 PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

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

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Donna,

Well, I am not sure how to answer that actually. It took five days

after surgery to have the first bowl movement and then I had them for

two days and nothing again since. I was told to expect them at least

three times a day. I feel this is the reason I have such an upset

stomach and that malox is becoming my best freind. I ate 1/2 cup of

yogurt this morning for breakfest and about 2 swallows of water since

have not been able to keep anything down. I have been having food

cravings such as orange juice, scramble eggs and peaches, I tried the

orange juice frozen bars that was suggested and they seemed to help

the craving but the eggs and the can a baby peaches made me vomit.

But my mood is actually pretty decent. I went through a much worse

time after my vbg then I have so far with this. The only bad part was

that I spiked a fever twiced and was vomiting so bad that my poor

husband had to hold up my head, but after those instances everything

went back to normal within two hours.

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]

you asked who did my surgery. It was Dr. Herron at Mount

Siani. I really liked his professionalism and I also really enjoyed

his honesty. His PA Gee is also wonderful. I have refused to

step on the scale until I go back to him on the 23rd of August.

Orginally four and a half years ago I weighed over 600 lbs. I lost

150 on my own and then had the VBG on Oct 30,1998 I went into this

surgery weighing 344. I had one tummy tuck when I lost my first 300

lbs and they took off 30 inches of skin from my apron. So in order

for me not to get disappointed or too demanding on myself I have

decided not to set foor on a scale until I see him on the 23rd. jan

> > 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

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Jan,

Your spirits sound good, despite what you're going through. I've found, in

the past, that

'attitude' really does play such an important part in recuperating from

surgery and tolerating

all of the hurdles it tosses at you. Hang in there, Jan .... from

everything I've read (and that

is a LOT), you're going to be ecstatic very very soon.

Bye,

Donna

Donna C. Joostema

(T/L) 444-7949

WES Build Support

email: joostema@...

janabbott@yaho

o.com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/2001 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

12:55 PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

Hi Donna,

Well, I am not sure how to answer that actually. It took five days

after surgery to have the first bowl movement and then I had them for

two days and nothing again since. I was told to expect them at least

three times a day. I feel this is the reason I have such an upset

stomach and that malox is becoming my best freind. I ate 1/2 cup of

yogurt this morning for breakfest and about 2 swallows of water since

have not been able to keep anything down. I have been having food

cravings such as orange juice, scramble eggs and peaches, I tried the

orange juice frozen bars that was suggested and they seemed to help

the craving but the eggs and the can a baby peaches made me vomit.

But my mood is actually pretty decent. I went through a much worse

time after my vbg then I have so far with this. The only bad part was

that I spiked a fever twiced and was vomiting so bad that my poor

husband had to hold up my head, but after those instances everything

went back to normal within two hours.

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]

,

Hi ! Well, I've got an appt. with Dr. Herron the middle of November, but

asked to put me on a

cancellation list for both Drs. Herron and Gagner. Dr. Gagner doesn't have

any consults until after the first

of the year, otherwise. I'm sure that Dr. Herron would be competent in

these types of issues, or else someone

of Dr. Gagner's notoriety and reputation wouldn't have him working with

him.

I guess the adhesions are just something that we'll find out about in

surgery, but it is nice to know that the

area of colon I had been operated on prior will be left alone (in terms of

their not having to be accessed).

My problem is that I want a magical glass ball that will show me everything

up front .... :-)

Bye,

Donna

ruisha@...

To: undisclosed-recipients:;

08/10/2001 cc:

12:57 PM Subject: re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

...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]

This is all great to hear !!! Dr. Herron is the surgeon I have a consult

with in November.

Bye,

Donna

janabbott@yaho

o.com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/2001 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

01:02 PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

you asked who did my surgery. It was Dr. Herron at Mount

Siani. I really liked his professionalism and I also really enjoyed

his honesty. His PA Gee is also wonderful. I have refused to

step on the scale until I go back to him on the 23rd of August.

Orginally four and a half years ago I weighed over 600 lbs. I lost

150 on my own and then had the VBG on Oct 30,1998 I went into this

surgery weighing 344. I had one tummy tuck when I lost my first 300

lbs and they took off 30 inches of skin from my apron. So in order

for me not to get disappointed or too demanding on myself I have

decided not to set foor on a scale until I see him on the 23rd. jan

> > 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

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

,

Hi ! I am still hoping/wishing to be able to go lap, but if I work on

accepting a very strong

likelihood that I'll end up open, I can gear myself up and not be so

disappointed later.

I'd rather go open and get the DS than go lap and have to get the RNY, so

I'm trying to

keep things in perspective. If Dr. Gagner has a cancellation and they call

me to offer

the spot, I will see him. If not, I'll stick with Dr. Herron and just

express my strict wishes

that he go lap if at all possible. Dr. Gagner should make you his 'poster

girl' !! I think

it's great that you have that high an opinion of him and were able to have

him do your

surgery !!!

Thanks for all of your thoughts, .. they do help.

Bye,

Donna

Donna C. Joostema

(T/L) 444-7949

WES Build Support

email: joostema@...

ruisha@...

To: duodenalswitch

08/10/2001 cc:

01:04 PM Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

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]

Hi ,

I have spoken with about 4 or 5 of Dr. Herron's patients ... I have even

talked on the phone with

Ellen and am supposed to call another this weekend. I have yet to hear

anything remotely negative

about Dr. Herron, so this is goodness :-)

I have gotten myself on the cancellation list for both Drs. as well as

having a standing appt. with

Dr. Herron. Have you found (or heard) that blockages, leaks, etc. are more

prevalent with one versus

the other (I mean lap versus open) ? I'd be interested to know if there's

a trend.

Bye,

Donna

ruisha@...

To: duodenalswitch

08/10/2001 cc:

01:31 PM Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

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 hope Sandy ended up doing okay with the RNY, but my heart goes out to her

just the same since it's

not what she wanted..

Bye,

Donna

ruisha@...

To: duodenalswitch

08/10/2001 cc:

01:38 PM Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

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- I told Dr. Herron that I absolutely wanted it done lap and I had a

high BMI. It took him 5 hours but he did it. He didn't switch to an open.

Talk to him and tell him what yoyu want and don't want. Ellen(Pam

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 8/10/01 12:30:28 PM Eastern Daylight Time,

joostema@... writes:

> . I think I'm just 'antsy' because

> I'm in the early early stages of getting this done and overwith, and

> everything just seems to be a stress point for me.

>

Donna, this is not an easy process. You feel many different emotions. There

are going to be stressful times, anxious times etc but all in all, I believe

it DOES help mentally prepare you for what is to come. Try to make use the

process of getting up to the surgery as a tool to prepare you emotionally and

spiritually.

Try to stay strong and focused and all will be well.

[Guest guest]

She wound up with an RNY and was very disappointed. It was sad,

because she felt she couldnt be a member of this DS group based on

the outcome of her surgery. Those of us who knew her really miss her,

but she couldnt be convinced to stay.

She had such bad problems from her VGB that she couldnt even swallow

pills. So I'm sure it was more the VGB and its staple lines than the

adhesions that caused the problems.

Dont borrow trouble, Donna. Your adhesions will be dealt with just

like the vast majority of us. Keep your appointment, and continue to

study. Be well, Meli

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

> 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@y...

>

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]

> Have you found (or heard) that blockages, leaks, etc. are more

> prevalent with one versus

> the other (I mean lap versus open) ?

Donna,

Leaks are much more prevelent in laprascopic technique because sewing

is more difficult. Blockages are probably similar. Wound infections

and healing time is better with the lap. Risk of incisional hernia

is much lower with the Lap.

Hull

[Guest guest]

Thanks Meli !! You're right, and I'm not going to worry about it any more.

I feel at peace with my

decision to stay with Dr. Herron, and if I have to go open ... well, it

certainly won't be the first time.

I live in N. Carolina, so I hate the thoughts of open because it will

lengthen my stay away from home

(not to mention the increased pain), but I am very fortunate in that I have

a sister who lives in the

city. I really appreciate your supportive words.

Bye,

Donna

Donna C. Joostema

(T/L) 444-7949

WES Build Support

email: joostema@...

lionrampart1@y

ahoo.com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/01 06:06 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

She wound up with an RNY and was very disappointed. It was sad,

because she felt she couldnt be a member of this DS group based on

the outcome of her surgery. Those of us who knew her really miss her,

but she couldnt be convinced to stay.

She had such bad problems from her VGB that she couldnt even swallow

pills. So I'm sure it was more the VGB and its staple lines than the

adhesions that caused the problems.

Dont borrow trouble, Donna. Your adhesions will be dealt with just

like the vast majority of us. Keep your appointment, and continue to

study. Be well, Meli

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

> 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@y...

>

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]

Thanks Meli !! You're right, and I'm not going to worry about it any more.

I feel at peace with my

decision to stay with Dr. Herron, and if I have to go open ... well, it

certainly won't be the first time.

I live in N. Carolina, so I hate the thoughts of open because it will

lengthen my stay away from home

(not to mention the increased pain), but I am very fortunate in that I have

a sister who lives in the

city. I really appreciate your supportive words.

Bye,

Donna

Donna C. Joostema

(T/L) 444-7949

WES Build Support

email: joostema@...

lionrampart1@y

ahoo.com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/01 06:06 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

She wound up with an RNY and was very disappointed. It was sad,

because she felt she couldnt be a member of this DS group based on

the outcome of her surgery. Those of us who knew her really miss her,

but she couldnt be convinced to stay.

She had such bad problems from her VGB that she couldnt even swallow

pills. So I'm sure it was more the VGB and its staple lines than the

adhesions that caused the problems.

Dont borrow trouble, Donna. Your adhesions will be dealt with just

like the vast majority of us. Keep your appointment, and continue to

study. Be well, Meli

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

> 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@y...

>

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]

Sounds as tho they sort of 'even out' :-)

The hernias everyone refers to ... what are they, what causes them, can

they be prevented, and

how involved is the surgery to correct them, and do they cause any other

problems ???

Bye,

Donna

chull1@....

com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/01 07:14 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

> Have you found (or heard) that blockages, leaks, etc. are more

> prevalent with one versus

> the other (I mean lap versus open) ?

Donna,

Leaks are much more prevelent in laprascopic technique because sewing

is more difficult. Blockages are probably similar. Wound infections

and healing time is better with the lap. Risk of incisional hernia

is much lower with the Lap.

Hull

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

[Guest guest]

I just wanted to take a minute to thank each and every one of you who has

taken the time

to express words of encouragement, strength, and comfort, not to mention

the patience in

answering all of my questions and concerns. . It means a lot to me to

know that

I can post and hear from someone who knows what I feel and can truly

understand all of my

emotions. My family is great, but it's not the same, and I just wanted to

tell you all how much

I appreciate you ... from the bottom of my heart.

Bye,

Donna

GABS12992 (AT) Aol (DOT)

com To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/10/01 08:01 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

In a message dated 8/10/01 12:30:28 PM Eastern Daylight Time,

joostema@... writes:

> . I think I'm just 'antsy' because

> I'm in the early early stages of getting this done and overwith, and

> everything just seems to be a stress point for me.

>

Donna, this is not an easy process. You feel many different emotions.

There

are going to be stressful times, anxious times etc but all in all, I

believe

it DOES help mentally prepare you for what is to come. Try to make use

the

process of getting up to the surgery as a tool to prepare you emotionally

and

spiritually.

Try to stay strong and focused and all will be well.

[Guest guest]

Donna- Your are a caring and suppotive person--That is why we all respond to

you. Ellen

[Guest guest]

Donna- Your are a caring and suppotive person--That is why we all respond to

you. Ellen

[Guest guest]

Awww .... shucks ... :-)

Beauby10220509

43@... To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/12/01 02:25 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

Donna- Your are a caring and suppotive person--That is why we all respond

to

you. Ellen

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

[Guest guest]

Awww .... shucks ... :-)

Beauby10220509

43@... To: duodenalswitch

cc:

08/12/01 02:25 Subject: Re:

Donna-mult abdominal surgeries

PM

Please respond

to

duodenalswitch

Donna- Your are a caring and suppotive person--That is why we all respond

to

you. Ellen

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