medical question..anyone know?

I was just curious as to whether there are ANY health conditions that would keep you from being approved for WLS? such as thyroid condition, heart irregularities, etc?? and if you have had a partial thyroidectomy in past, will it prevent from the same type off weight loss as those who have normal thyroid function levels? Thank You..God Bless.

Heart condition is a definite disqualifier. Expect a thorough heart exam before the surgery. You may have to get your heart fix first before WLS. A member of the support group I attend found out about a heart condition (blocked arteries) during the pre-op heart exam. A heart by-pass operation was needed with a full year recovery before WLS could be scheduled. Any cancerous condition also will disqualify you.

Regarding the thyroid question--after a partial thyroidectomy you are probably on a thyroid supplement (Synthroid or Levoxyl) and having your levels measured regularly (blood work at least every 6 months). After the surgery you will probably need to have levels checked more often (monthly) but if your TSH stays within a normal range (0.5--5.0) your weight loss should not suffer. What health conditions may disqualify you depends on your surgeon--many of them have different restrictions for the patients they will accept as candidates. Carolyn Moore (Nurse Practitioner) DS 11/03/03 317/237