Major complication with fistula - has anyone ever heard of this??

Hello. I am so sorry I don't get to post more, but I lurk often. My profile is huge, so it may be a bore to read, but throughout my journey I have made references to my fistula which was discovered after an ambulance ER visit the day my drain was pulled 9 days post-op. This week I had another swallow study done and got violently ill from the barium (lasted an entire day). If that wasn't enough, it was found that my outlet is 100% closed and everything is going through my fistula into my old stomach Apparently the outlet is like a pierced ear -- if you don't wear an earring (or use it in my case) it closes. So, now I don't know what I am going to do. My surgeon is world renowned and very supportive. I just don't know if I should have a complete revision and beg my parents to pay again (they paid for me) or if I should accept the success I am experiencing now? I am going to do a food laced barium in the hospital with my surgeon present (b/c of my reaction to it in the past) and we will see if I appear to be "lap banded" where the food will stay for awhile in my pouch before exiting my fistula. That is what I am praying for. If it goes straight through, then I know a revision is probably needed. My surgeon does think it is amazing that I have lost what I have lost since I don't have the restriciton that I should have. I am sad but still determined. The complication board is super slow so I thought I would post here and see if anyone has any thoughts or advice. In good news, I have lost a total of 79lbs and have 24lbs to go to get to goal. My fear is that if I get there I can't stay there as my pouch grows. Thanks for being a shoulder to complain too! Roni 242/163/136

That SUCKS!!!!! I am so sorry that you are having this problem. Although you are doing better then me in weight loss, I have only lost 70lbs and don't have any complications (I am not complaining just wanted to let you know that you are doing fantastic even with the problem) I think your Surgeon should try to get this fixed for you at no cost. I am sure he can pull some strings if he wants. I will keep you in my prayers and best of luck. Hang in there! Teresa

Roni - I'm so sorry that you're having to deal with this! It's wonderful that you are having success but I can certainly understand your fears. What are the odds that your parents will help you out? If they can I think I'd go for the revision (that's just me). You are doing such a good job and have a great attitude. Things will work out for you. Take care and keep us posted! Deb

Hi Roni, So sorry to hear that the fistula is still being a pain!! I hope that your parents agree to pay for the revision. I would have the same concern...regaining the weight! You have done an amazing job losing weight while having a fistula!!! Just amazing!! Take Care Roni and hang in there!! ~Summer