bariatric center

I have some questions for people who have had their surgery at any of the bariatric center's. I would like to know if they have you see the different specialists such as Pulmonologist, cardiologist, excersise specialist, dietician, pshychologist, have blood work drawn, abdominal ultrasound, chest xray, EGD (tube down the throat to see the stomach for acid reflux)? I would like to know why didn't you ask if they will have you go through all these tests. I am concerned that these Dr's do not have you go through these different tests to be safe you know. It is a major concern for me. I know that I am thankful for my Dr who made me go through all these tests as a precaution. For one they all could have found something that you never new you had. I was very thankful. I guess every surgeon is different. I also know that the surgeons out there are cut happy my open rny scare is 3-4 inches. Does not look like railroad tracks either. My surgeon did not use staples. He used the skin glue and sturry stripes. Thank God. I am just real curious how some people feel about their surgeon who did not put them through the different tests and specialists.

Clearances are typically only ordered if the surgeon sees a complication arising. If you have had heart problems in the past, then you would probably see a cardiologist before surgery. I don't really understand your point about acid reflux and an endoscopy, because this doens't really have any effect on your ability to get through the actual procedure. Actually, GERD often allieviates after a RNY. Most places give you an abdominal ultrasound and have you meet with a respiratory therapist. As for the psych eval, unless the surgeon thinks that you have a severe eating disorder, are uncapable of making the decision to have surgery on your own, or are doing it for the wrong reasons, there is no need to have one. Some insurances do require it though.

On the contrary, my surgeon requires blood work (including HIV), EGD, EKG, cardiac clearence, dietician consultation, psych eval, PFT and an ABG. I have never had heart problems and I am only 27 years old. I am glad I am going through all of these tests, because in the end, I will truly know how healthy I am. I am scheduled for surgery 10/25/2004 and excited! I am even more excited that I only have 5 tests left. Thanks, Rebecca