Dr C advise please

I just found out today that I have to have my gallbladder removed. The surgery itself doesn't worry me at all but the thought of something happening to my band. I precausions should I take to insure that the surgen doesn't damage anything? you advise is appreicated.

Cindi, The best thing to do is to come to Cincinnati and let ME take out your gallbladder... The next best thing to do is have your band surgeon take out your gallbladder. If you can't do that, you need to make sure your surgeon knows exactly where the port is and the path of the catheter in order to avoid puncturing or damaging the tubing. Good luck! Dr. C Cincinnati, Ohio www.TheBandDoctor.com 877.442.BAND DISCLAIMER: I am not your surgeon, any comments made by me are not meant to be taken as medical advice, just general guidelines. Contact your surgeon about your specific problem!

Boy, I wish I could have you do it! But as I'm in Calif and my insurance proberly won't cover it. I wish I could have my own band doctor remove it but I was self paid because he is out if network. I'm stuck with what the insurance provides me hopefully I will hve someone who know what he is doing.

Here's what I would do: go to your band surgeon right before your appointment with your general surgeon and ask him to draw with permanent marker where your port is and the path of the catheter. Then when you see your general surgeon he or she will know exactly where to stay away from. Good luck! Dr. C Cincinnati, Ohio www.TheBandDoctor.com 877.442.BAND DISCLAIMER: I am not your surgeon, any comments made by me are not meant to be taken as medical advice, just general guidelines. Contact your surgeon about your specific problem!

I spoke to by primary doctor about my concerns and she told me that the surgon she refered me has done bariatric surgery. That makes me feel much better and less stressed. Nice to have a caring doctor, not much of them around.