Medical Side Effects

Hi!  Just curious about any medical side effects caused by surgery (especially band and/or RNY).  I was told by a kidney specialist recently that RNY can RARELY cause kidney stones or kidney failure.  Also, I know at least 2 people who have developed serious thyroid problems thought to be caused by surgery.  Any one know of anything else?  

I had two friends who had RNY and both of them developed an iron deficiency and had to get shots I think. With any weight loss surgery you have to be dilligent about taking your supplements/vitamins. I had the band about 3 months ago and I'm doing just great, lost about 30 pounds so far. But with the band there is a chance of the band slipping if you vomit too much/don't follow the rules. When I asked my surgeon how common this was he told me they only ever had 1 lapband patient with a slippage and she was pregnant and throwing up many times in one day.

I'm sure Patrece and the others know some others to look for.

Also, if  you are thinking of getting surgery, a GREAT book is The Expert's Guide to Weight Loss Surgery by Garth Davis, MD. I didn't get it until after my surgery but it still helps me even now.
Here's a link to it if you are interested:

http://www.amazon.com/Experts-Guide-Weight-Loss-Surgery-happ ens/dp/1594630526

Hope that helped a little!
Hugs,

B-12 and iron and calcium deficiencies are a concern, but typically if you take your supplements as you should , you shouldn't have to worry too much about it. also keep your lab testing up to date as your doctor orders.
Gallstones are not uncommon, especially with super duper fast weight loss. Sometimes peple can get strictures, where the scar tissue narrows the opening to your stomach (pouch) and it is an easy out patient fix. Most people never have compolications, but a few do. Another thing to be aware of is possible bowel obstruction  from either scar tissue, or from the instestines shifting too quickly with fast weight loss. This is rare but does happen to some. I am not aware of the increased risk of kidney failure due to wls. But that doesn't mean it doesn't exist.
Hope this helps. But remember, these complications don't hapopoen to everyone.