This is a small section from a book called The Complete Guide To Obesity Surgery "The Mini Gastric Bypass is not the same as the gold standard Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass operation, and very few known surgeons perform the procedure. One surgeon in particular remains an Internet marketing genius, with snake oil salesman qualities, who is unable to swallow his pride or too foolish to see his mistake. The word "mini", commonly referred to as minimal access or laparoscopic surgery has confused many. Do not mistake the Mini Gastric Bypass procedure, which has been condemned because it is a renamed of the "loop" gastric bypass that was abandoned in 1970. 30 years ago the "loop" gastric bypass was found to cause severe stomach irritation. It's this looping of the small intestine that is dangerous. As proven by the orginator of the "loop" Gastric Bypass and others, the "loop" gastric bypass bathes the stomach in bile and pancreatic juices, rather than diverting the digestive juices to enter well away from the stomach as with the RNY. This has repeatedly proven to cause bile reflux, in the form of severe heartburn, esophagitis or inflammation of the esophagus, stomach ulcers and over time possible cancer in the esophagus. Such complications could require surgical reversal in many patients. As a patient considers surgery, it can be overwhelming, but when it comes to the "loop" gastric bypass, the weight loss results are insignificant when weighted against the significant risk. In closing, think for yourself and remember even its originator has condemned the loop bypass procedure. If this procedure is so simple to perform why aren't more surgeons are not performing the Mini Gastric Bypass? Simple, because it is not safe. For more information log on to www.mini-gastricbypass.com"

Hi David, I have visited the High Point Regional Website and they DO have a support group. It wouldn't be too bad being an hour and a half commute during the summer. I am in contact with a local group that meets twice a month, not MGB but that is ok. I am lots of great ideas and I am excited to get involved. Support groups are very important to our success. Thanks David.

Hi Ryan, Did you ever find anyone doing MGB in Mexico? The American Docs will not do mine due to the high risk. 56 bmi with arithmia. But, I am a walking deadman without it. So i am still looking for a soloution. If you found anything would you share the info? Thanks, David

I had my MGB in Durham, NC with Dr. Rutledge. At that time, he had only done 300-400 operations. It was very new and it was when insurance covered it. I was one of the lucky ones. Yea, I still live in VA at least until October. Paula

Hi Peach: I don't know if they do the MGB in Mexico yet or not. I did have a Lap-Band there, though. The "real" MGB Is pretty affordable...I think around $17000. Karla