Consultation with Dr. Gibbs tomorrow!!!

What exactly goes on at a consultation?   This is just one of the hoops Arkansas Vocational Rehab wants me to jump through in order to evaluate whether I am eligible for their help in paying for my surgery (which would be open RNY with gall bladder removal). I won't know for sure until July when their funds are renewed-- but it feels great to be one step closer as of tomorrow.   One of the things I'd like to know more about is the pre-op diet, if there is one.  Does anyone know what Dr. Gibbs requires to that effect? Thanks! Helen

Hi Helen, Dr Gibbs is my doctor and when I had my surgery 19 months ago, he did not require a liquid diet or pre-op bowel cleanse. Also, he does not routinely remove the gallbladder unless there is evidence that it is diseased.....trust me on this one, he's taking mine out on the 16th of this month. Good luck on your journey

Thank you for responding, Susan!   When I went to Dr. Gibbs' seminar (sometime last fall-- October or November maybe?) he said that he *does* like to take the gall bladder out with open RNY because of the problems it could cause later. Maybe his position on that has changed. I'll still ask tomorrow.   I really wouldn't have much say in the matter anyhow-- Arkansas Vocational Rehab only pays for the Open RNY with gall bladder removal.   Even if that is the only procedure they'll cover, I will *definitely* take it!!   I hope hope hope I get approved in July! Did you have open or laparoscopic surgery?  Do you mind telling me of your experience with Dr. Gibbs and his team? Thanks a bunch! Helen 

This whole area of medicine changes so rapidly, it's hard to keep up.  If that's what he said in his seminar, then he's changed his position on the subject since my surgery in '06.  At any rate, here's what I can tell you about Dr Gibbs and his staff.  Dr Gibbs is highly professional and is top notch in his field. He is NOT overly friendly, actually, he's rather quiet and to the point. But when you're looking for someone who knows this procedure inside and out, he'd be my choice over and over again. Carrie, his nurse is wonderful. She has ALWAYS returned my call (depending on it's importance, of course) in  a timely manner, and has been instrumental in my progress. There really hasn't been anything I've asked her that she can't answer.  JoBeth, the nutritionist that works with Dr Gibbs has a Master's in nutrition and is considered ( even by other nutritionists in the State) as "the " authority on WLS nutrition. Please let me know how your appointment goes today.  Good luck