HI Emma,My Name is Dave.I personally don't know Dr.Rutledge,but have been checking him out.I have not had surgery(By-Pass0 as of yet,However,I do find it strange that a MD. will not process INSURANCE? I have had two spinal fusionsL-5S-1/C-6/7 and my MD Had a staff that worked overtime to help get MUCH MORE EXSPENSIVE SURGERIES APPROVED(200.000)Dollars US.I am ON Medicaid Because I am disabled,see I suffer from BI-POLAR Disorder as well and have gained over 100 lbs due to the inability to work.So I know how difficult Physically and Mentally it is to feel as you do it took several times for myself to find the right DR. BUT I DID...I am starting a 6 month diet to Qualify for RNY.It will be done at a Gold Standard Bariactric Hospital in Cincinnati,Ohio By DR.Lisa Martinhawver.I have studied the different surgeries and from what I SEE DR. Rutledge is doing nothing more than a Duadenal Switch,But not removing half of the stomach ...if you compare his to the switch you will see what I mean. Best of Luck and I hope I helped Ease your frustration YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!          DAVE...

That is to bad more drs do not do the MGB.. I am just hearing of this but I do not think  my surgeon does this. I just know that the band is not right for me..

I had a 6 ft long bypass.

Amen!  Beware of imitations!  Go to CLOS.net and check it out.

Does anyone know of any MGB doctors in Alabama