John: As somebody who has been considering a VSG for three years now... I can tell you that there arent' the long-term studies out there yet to support what you're saying.  Yes, the work done by the LapSF group (of which your surgeon used to be a member of) is promising.  Baltasar has shown some promising results too.  But the furthest out there in terms of data is three years.  Period.  And that is a very small patient sub-set.   Nobody can tell you what things are going to look like for VSGers further down the road... it may turn out to have the same issues that other restrictive only operations have, we simply don't know.  Some of the people on the VSG boards, like Nan, have actually had a hybrid procedure--with a VSG and a small intestinal bypass (Dr. Heap).  People like Gagner, who originally conceived of the VSG as the first part of a two step DS, still encourage most of their patients to have the DS part to maintain weightloss.  Baltasar has talked about having to revise sleeves at three years due to stretching. Rutledge does have impressive long-term results (going to six years).  The VSG just doesn't have the same studies yet. You really don't do yourself, these patients, or the VSG any good by just bashing other surgeries.  If you want people who may be considering a VSG to think about it, there are better ways than posts like yours. Peace.

 John, I, too, would like to know what you base this opinion on?  As an MGB'er who has lost over 200 pounds, I have met scores of folks like me who are very happy with their results.  I did a lot of research before choosing the MGB, and I have no regrets nor have I met anyone else who did.

 

Sandy

I dont care if you all get mad but mgb is garbage to little sucess with so many failures.  The wls of the future is VSG.  All the weight loss with little or no side effects.  Take care all.

 Hi, You are doing the right thing--reasearching all your options.  I did, too, even saw a doctor who did the open surgery (YIKES!) and made an appointment at Emory hospital.  Before that came about, though, I happened upon the CLOS website. After researching it, I made my decision. I was scared, too, but after comparing the mortality rate ,surgery time and recovery time, and, very importantly to me, the fact that it is reversible if I made a terrible mistake, I felt I was informed enough to make a choice! I read all these horror stories in OH about the RNY and lapband, and I am so happy I made the choice I did.  I have gone from a high of 392 to between 175-180 since my MGB three years ago.  I have a contact letter that tells my story if you would like me to send it to you.  Basically, you need to go to CLOS.net and read all the advantages the MGB has over the other options.  Good luck, and if I can be of help, let me know. Sandy 

Bridget:  Was Dr. OBrien the one who did the original mini bypass.  Was he trained by Dr. Rutledge who founded CLOS?  Has anyone who has had the MGB with a CLOS doctor had this happen?  Reply to [email protected].  Thanks