Joanne, I've heard of it being used on RNY patients who have larger stomas or have had them enlarged. I seem to recall it gets placed just above the stoma to make a smaller hole out of the bottom of the pouch thereby getting the benefit of restricting food intake. Linn

Joanne, I have no idea. BUT since the pouch is totally separate from the old stomach (transected = separated, right?) I would doubt it. There is a possibility of slipage with the lap band ring in some patients. Since your new tummy is so much smaller, I would think it would be extremely difficult to place. If you research it, let us know what you find out. Mary

Hi Debbie, thanks for the response. They are working up primary versus secondary carnitine def. If primary (born with it) the wls could have quickened the progression to these symptoms. Scarey if I had it 54 years. wls can cause secondary def by itself or with the primary type. I was slacking on my vitamins and supplements for a while, but am back on track. All of those levels are normal thankfully. I am very careful with getting the protein in. I can't tolerate any meat though, and carnitine is only found in meat and dairy. Will keep you all updated. Hugs back, Paula

You are in my heart, thoughts, and prayers. You WILL pull through this and be even stronger for it. You have not come this far to let something take you down. Hey, I fractured 2 ribs and broke my back last year. So I know where you are coming from as far as that. You're loved by a lot of people and you have us all routing for you to get better. AND YOU WILL! (((hugs))) Joanne

Hi Paula - sorry to hear you are going through all this. Please keep us posted on how you are doing. Good luck with your future appointments. ((hugs)) - and prayers coming your way. take care, Denise