Question:
Distals and Proximals... comparatively how is your long term health?

Hi, I am thinking of having DS, but I am worried about having a distal procedure because of vitamin/mineral deficiency. I am am not superobese (5'5", 260lbs), so maybe I don't need a distal, but I still think the DS is for me because of the post-op diet. My question is for all of you out there who have had a distal procedure: are the deficiencies really manageable or is that just wishful thinking? I already drink 60-80ozs. of water a day, I don't mind taking vitamins everyday, or getting blood tests every 6 months, but is that really going to be enough? I have almost made my peace with this procedure, but I'd like some assurance... but if the truth isn't assuring, I'd rather the truth. Thanks :)    — [Anonymous] (posted on December 5, 2001)

December 5, 2001
You being 5'5" and 260pounds , shouldn't need to have the distal. Distal is more for "heavier" people who have a great deal to lose. With either procedure you will have to supplement your vites and drink plenty of water.....however, people who are distal tend to have , shall we say, looser bowel movements than the proximal people. Not EVERYONE, but the majority do. You will still continue to have the lab work done every 6 months whether you are distal or proximal. As long as they are coming back good then you know the supps are doing their job. If not, the doctor will let you know what you need to do to eleviate any deficiencies you may have.
   — [Anonymous]

December 5, 2001
I am very distal RNY. About the same common channel as DS, but with less absorption. After many years, I still must watch what I eat (to a degree) and over time, I find that some elements are harder to maintain at normal levels and a few have become more normal. I wish I had known more about supplementation earlier, but at least I know what I know NOW so I can head off further problems in those areas. However, the problems that I have had are still not as severe as those I experienced as a morbidly obese person. Were I a proximal, and the potential for regain was stronger, I fear for which of those comorbs might come back in smaller measure, too. Not everyone is happy as a distal. Some would trade back 20, 30, 50 # to be dependent on a lower volume of supplementation. I'd be happier even more distal. So, weighing is good. Talking to folks of both kinds is good, esp those 5+ years post-op.
   — vitalady

December 6, 2001
I am 5'8 and weigh about 255 to 260. I am having open RNY Distal....Depending on your eating pattern it might be possible to have Distal done at a lighter weight. I trust my doctor to do what is best. He has a great success rate. He did a surgery a few weeks ago on someone that was 100 pounds heavier than me and did proximal....Mine is distal because of my eating pattern.
   — Melody F.

December 6, 2001
I am a 60" distal RNY. My surgey was 08/28/01. I am 5'0" and my pre-surgery weight was 230. I am very happy with my results (currently down 55 lbs and 55 inches) and love my protein supplements (I mean being able to have a chocolate shake every day (actually 4-5 proteins a day) is a nice reward in order to still being able to lose weight. I also take my vitamins that I have ever in my life, but again the trade for being overweight or being thin.....I'll take the supplements, vitamins and blood work anytime.
   — trtorrey