Id like to talk with folks that go to Duke WLS

Hello, I had my LapBand in since Oct 04 and it was done in NY, 3 years ago I moved to NC and have been going to Duke WLS center.  Ive seen Drs Demaris and Portnier, along with NP Blackwood.  I would just like to hear comments about this group. Thanks!

Hi Elynn,

I had my surgery with Dr. Eric DeMaria in June 2007. My husband had Dr. Dana Portenier perform his RNY in December of 2008 and we have both seen Hillary Blackwood on numerous occasions. They are technically excellent. The group as a whole has been going through what could be best called growing pains over the past 1.5 yrs, but they have a new director of the program and a bariatric coordinator and so the administrative portion of the program seems to be getting better. I would ablsolutely feel comfortable having either Dr's perform a surgical procedure on me or anyone I care about. I find Hilary to be thoughtful, considerate, articulate, and exceptionally competent. I have found her to go above and beyond the 'call of duty' on numerous occasions.

Im not sure exactly what you are looking for regarding comments about the group, but would be happy to discuss my own experiences with you if you would like.

I have only seen Dr. Pryor, but have friends that have seen Dr. Portnier and think the sun sets on him!...... I think the surgeons are very capable... the office staff is lacking a bit!!!   But its the docs that matter in my opinion.  Welcome to NC!

I had my RNY with Portenier in October and have nothing but positive things to say about him  This surgery has been an amazing success for me.  Please feel free to PM me if you have any specific questions.

Good Morning, 
 
Dr. Portnier preformed my surgery 2 years ago and he is great. After I had my surgery I had a few problems and he was right on top of things concerning my health. He is a Great Dr.

Thanks for all your input everybody, it helps going and not having any recommendations.  I wish you all the best.  Ive been dealing with throat issues, Ive been to an ENT also, they think its acid reflux (even though I do not get heartburn)  It feels like someone is pressing on my throat and Im always clearing it and its NOT sore but feels strained especially toward the end of the day,Ive been on prilosec Im supposed to take it 2x a day but it makes me really dizzy so Im taking it 1x. I went back to the ENT and he said its not strong enough so he prescribed Nexium, Im going to pick that up soon but I have to call Duke and let them know this.  Ive had on and off pain right in the middle, I will have what feels like bad gas pain with bloating that could last 2-3 days then goes away, they think its intermitten slippage.   Then I get pain on my right side, Ive had an ultrasound for gallbladder that came back fine and I had an abdominal CT that came back fine.     Thank God, Ive been feeling pretty good the past 2 weeks,  Ive been on a rollercoaster, Ive lost around 90 lbs,  I fluctuate alot. I just hate always going up to Durham and trying different things and its expensive even with our insurance!!  Thanks again!