WLS then ileum removed later?

Hello All,

Has anyone had WLS and then later had to have a portion of their small intestine removed because of cancer or Chron's (such as terminal ileum)? If so, what was your experience? Any advice?

My WLS surgery history:

I had an RNY in 2012. Went from 235 to 160 and stabilized at 175 (highest weight 250). Had a great doctor, hospital, nutritionist, and recovery with no complications what so ever but did suffer from what I thought to be exclusively chronic arthritis, foot, and back injury problems which limited exercise. Also had fatigue. 

Post surgery:

I expected to be more active and have energy. Didn't happen. Labs and nutritional tests looked great for several years. I take almost without fail my nutritional supplements: Calcium, B12, multivitamin, iron (all from Bariatric Advantage) and vitamin D from the store. Thought it was just a problem with my motivation and lifestyle (I care for my disabled husband). Pain in body gradually become worse. Got a physiatrist which helped some (lidocaine patches, Voltaren cream, Tylenol with rare use of Vicoden). Honeymoon weight lasted about 1 year and then gradually the weight increased to my current weight of 192lbs. Can only walk the dog for 10-15 minutes before needing to get off my feet and rest (I have nerve impingement syndrome in both feet). I carefully tracked food intake and calories averaged 1,700 (I should be less, yes, but being honest what I'm eating at now).

Recent history:

Late last spring went to doctor complaining of severe fatigue. Blood work came back abnormal which caused more tests. It was initially thought that I had Chron's Disease but further lab testing showed I have had neuro-endocrine tumors (Carcinoid Cancer) for likely 5-10 years and that it has spread to my lymph nodes and unfortunately, my liver. My RNY surgery likely would not have been approved had this been known.

Next week:

I'm being followed by oncologist, surgeon, and GI specialists. Having terminal ileum - cecum removed but surgeon said she will examine all of small intestine visually once I am opened and will remove all parts that appear cancerous (not all will show up on scans that I've had). Liver assessment will come later. Cancer drugs have been started. I'm hoping to get an idea of what other WLS patients have experienced.

THANK you all in advance! Bea

Hi Bea, I have no advice (I haven't had surgery yet.) but I'm touched by your story. My mom has colon cancer as did her dad. I've wondered myself what would happen if I get it post surgery. Take care of yourself and know that people are thinking and praying for you. Best wishes to you. Joy

Thank you :)

They found mine by doing a colonoscopy so don't skip out on that (that's my advice to everyone). Bea

I don't have any experience but just want to tell you I'm saying a prayer for you! I hope things work out well. 

Will accept all prayers :)

Thank you for thinking of me.

Bea

Sending hugs, and healing vibes.

Thank you 

(I finally found the emoticons)

best of luck Bea 

Thank you. Missed your comment. Had my surgery and it went well overall. I'm a month out and tests looking good. Had only 15 inches of small intestine removed and food moving through well. Don't feel as sick! Thanks again for caring. Made me smile :)