Chronic Ulcers HELP!!

Hi Group,
I usually just read the posts but I need some advice here.  My original RNY was done May 2007, since then I have had 7 ulcers, the first was diagnosed 6 weeks post-op, and the worst one perforated last December sending me into the hospital for 28 days. 

In December I ended up having a diagnostic laparoscopy, drainage of 3 abdominal abcesses, removal of 1 quart of fluid from my lung.  I had 5 drain tubes and a G-Tube for 8 weeks after release from the hospital. 

In April I had another surgery to correct a Peterson's hernia and a twisted bowel, luckily thats fixed and everything is good there.

I have had EGJ's done every 3 months or so since my original surgery, almost every one has showed an ulcer in one stage or another.  I have been on Carafate and Previcid almost continuously, every time the doctor tries to wean me off of the meds the ulcers come back or get worse.

My labs are good, I get 75-85 grams of protein a day, I take all the required supplements and then some.  Over the past month since this ulcer has gotten really bad, I can only consume meal replacements and water without vomiting. 

My surgeon doesn't listen to me when I tell him I have another ulcer or about the stomach pain and bowel trouble I'm having, he just keeps saying that we really don't want to do any more surgery (I'm all for that!) but I'm thinking we need to do something or find out why this is happening to me.  I'm afraid if I perforate again I may not survive it.

And with all the pain, ulcers, vomiting etc.  I'm now having issues with depression and insomnia.  Has anyone had these problems?   Any suggestions?

Help! 

Desperate in Davis

I just wanted to say I am very sorry for what you are going through.  I didn't have RNY so I can't speak to the challenges you are facing.  My heart goes out to you though. -Amy

I too am very sorry for what you have gone through. I haven't had these problems but would like to advise you to find yourself another doctor. This is your life you are dealing with here, not his, and if he doesn't choose to listen it's time to look else where.  Best of Luck. Rita

I have no suggestions for you, sorry.  However, it is way past time to see a good gasteroenterologist.  You may have to come to OKC or go to Dallas to see someone who can really help you.  There is obviously something your surgeon is missing.  Good luck figuring it all out.

i feel for you...i also have a recurring ulcer however not to the extent that you have.  mine only show up in September -go figure....  If you bariatric surgeon is not suggesting anything different it may be time to head to a gastro doctor or get a referral from your bariatric surgeon for additional medical help.  there are some great gastro docs in the area so one of them should be able to figure you out. 

nobody wants to have multiple surgeries so that is not anywhere near the issue.  but i would definitely seek additional help from a different doctor if the one you are working with is not giving you what you need.

hang in there.  i know it is difficult and depressing.  keep looking for your answers.  if you need kind words you can always pm me and i'll try to send some your way.

Ruth

You really have to find a dr. who will listen to you.  I agree with the other ladies.  I'm sorry I don't have any other suggestions I am pre-op.  Please listen and don't put off finding a new dr.  You know your body so don't stop until someone listens to you.
Bless your heart!!!  I'm so sorry you are going through this.
Your Okie friends are here for you!
Kim

I wish I had some good advice for you but I don't know anything about ulcers.  But I agree with the others here in that you need a fresh pair of medical eyes to look at your case.  It is way past time for someone to help you since this doesn't seem to be the norm for RNY.

Good luck and please let us know how you're doing.

Hello there.  I am so sorry you are having these issues.  My Mom had surgery this past week for an ulcer that perforated her stomach which leaked and caused pockets of fluid in places there should be none.  That is "SERIOUS" stuff.  I agree that you should at least consult someone for another opinion.  I would think your surgeon should be open to that.  I find that a great doc is one *****alizes they don't have all the answers and most often times welcome another pair of eyes and their opinion. 

By the way, off the subject, I am a former Davisite.  I left there in 69 but grew up there until I was a junior in high school.  I have some family still there.  I have many fond memories from Davis.  Take care of yourself...it is your life and you know your body better than anyone. 

Thank you all for your response to my problem.  I have sought the opinion of a gastoenterologist in the past who was not overly familiar with bariatric surgery complications.  I am going to make an appointment with another bariatric surgeon today.  I see my surgeon tomorrow for a follow up after my last EGJ, we'll see what he has to say this time.  I'll keep you posted...