Attention all weight wisers(and other vsgers)...

Okay, here's a question and I don't know if any of you can answer it or if it will be one of those for the doc. When I was watching a video of the procedure being done, the physician stapled the stomach and also did sutures on it as an extra precaution against leaks. Do any of you know if any of the ww docs do that as well?By the way, I am ECSTATIC about my decision to get the sleeve and about having it done at ww. I did not have nearly this kind of peace about the band. It's really strange.

Rita might be the best one to answer the staple question.  I know they have a "gun" type contraption that "fires" the staple line they use.  I think it has a double staple line type situation if I recall the description, but RITA??????  I will tell you the complication rate is EXTREMELY low at WeightWise due to all the precautions they take.  Also the hospital infection rate is WELL below the US average for any hospital.  There are many steps taken to ensure that a patient is free and clear of issues before they leave the hospital no matter what is being done!! I am glad you are feeling comfortable with your new decision.  Please be sure to let me know when you are attending seminar - I would be happy to meet you there and make sure you are taken care of!! It is really strange when you reach peace in your decision.  I felt that same peace when I finally decided to schedule my RNY.  

Joni, I am really not sure about the use of sutures along with the staples. I can find out for you though. I am thinking probably not because we use a lot of tiny titanium staples. I can tell you that we do a leak test with blue dye while you are still in surgery to check for leaks. I can also tell you that we have had very few leaks and the few that we have had have been detected quickly and fixed. I totally support your decision for the VSG over the band. I personally am not a band fan, however I think that it is a personal decison that each individual needs to make on their own. If I can answer any questions or assist you in any way, please do not hesitate to ask. Best of luck to you on your WLS journey. By the way, your son is a very handsome little guy. Enjoy every moment with him, because they grow up way too fast, Rita

I do know the answer to this question because I asked Dr. Walton.  They do NOT suture over the staple line.  It is their belief (I am sure through research) that sutures actually weaken the staple line and INCREASE the chance of a leak.  I have no doubt that my staple line will be good an tight.  It will be my job to protect their work and follow the post-op diet to the letter.

If you have any other questions just ask.  I went in with a list of about 15 questions at my consultation appointment and another 15 at my pre-op appointment.  Dr. Walton was VERY patient and answered everyone. Despite the fact that 6 days before surgery I am a little freaked out every now and then I am really at peace with my decision.  I totally trust Dr. Walton and Dr. Broussard. Denise

 

Happycat, we all go through that. Lovely Rita, look at your new pic. Gorgeous, woman!