VBG 1987, Sick now from Eroded Band, Open Surgery, Rev, what next

Hello, I had VBG in 87 with no immediate complications. I was 33 at the time and I Lost 110 pounds in less than six months. I was in the hospital for a diff reason and had two enteric coated pills obstruct the pouch rendering my surgery for ever ineffective. Very Depressing. My wt returned to the pre surgery wt within three yrs. Fast forward to 1990 admitted for severe nausea, vomiting , epigastric pain. EGD reveals erosion of band but surgeon tell me not big deal. 2001 mutiple medical problems, Systemic Lupus, Disabled..... Gastroparesis, not known if this is complication of surgery or of Lupus, is a dibiliating illness. Have been in the Hospital twice in less than thirty days for dehydration, very sick. Now, referred to Shands in 2004 for eval of Gastroparesis. The Doc at this teaching Hospital says that the BAND MUST BE REMOVED.... referred me to Surgeon who says that he will not attempt a revision rather will have to remove a portion of my stomach, partial Gastrectomy. I have written to cts obesity site, Dr. Fobi people,they say that band can be removed via endoscope. Who does one believe. I dont look forward to open abdominal sugery of course. If it is necessary I certainly will have it done. I am really just very frightened about all of this. Reading of the complications that so many have suffered. Having lost a friend two years ago that never came home after her wls. I welcome communications from anyone. My email is [email protected] Wishing all seeking second operations the best of luck, the best surgeons. Sincerely, Bev in Georgia

Bev- How awful! I was trying to decide on wls and just happened on your posting. I have only been able to find glowing reports about the bands. You mention complications, other than yours. Where do I look for this information. And the death of your friend is very sad and very scary! Please share your information with me-I do want to be fully informed. Thank you so much. Laura in Texas [email protected]

Just as an FYI, the VBG that Bev had is a different kind of surgery than the Lap-band. The VBG is a fairly old kind of surgery that most surgeons have stopped doing. It involves the stomach being cut and stapled, then a non-adjustable band is put on the small pouch. The Lap-band involves an adjustable band and doesn't require cutting the stomach.

I am sorry that you have suffered so many problems. I haven't been in this situation, but if it were to happen to me, I think I would definitely try consulting with some gastroenterologists and see if they are willing to attempt a band removal by endoscopy first before going for another major surgery. I hope that everything works out well for you. Good luck!

I hope you get a second opinion before you let the doctor remove part of your stomach. Good luck with everything. Chi-Chi