Question:
DOES ANYONE DO LAP RNY DIVIDING THE STOMACH INSTEAD OF STAPLING?

I am 8 weeks post op and my staple line (8 rows) has broken down completely for no reason. Is a Lap a possibility to have a complete division? Are the risks greater for a division or partial stomach removal compared to a staple line RNY? Infection risk greater? Complication risk greater? Please help!! Thanks!!    — Lisa .. (posted on June 2, 2000)

June 2, 2000
I do believe that the unused part of the stomach can be removed during a lap procedure. My surgeon performs lap for both the RNY and BPD/DS. In the BPD/DS, he removes the unused portion of the stomach laprascopically, so I'm sure the same can be done for a RNY. I don't have the answers to your other questions, but maybe a consult with a lap surgeon (mine is in NYC, not too far from Phila.) might ease your mind. Hang in there...
   — DOROTHY A.

June 2, 2000
I had the lap RNY with a transection, ie, they cut the stomach into two parts and then stapled the open ends closed. This method prevents almost all staple line disruptions, as the cut edges of the stomach scar around the staples. However, there is a slightly greater risk of peritonitis, leakage of food and gastric material into the abdominal cavity, which is dangerous. They leave the partial stomach attached so that the gastric acids can enter the small intestine and help us digest the food we eat. I had the lap RNY with Dr. Champion in Atlanta on Feb 22nd, 14 1/2 weeks out and down 65 pounds.
   — Elizabeth M.

June 5, 2000
Dr. Robert Rutledge has done a number of failed RNY revisions. His procedure does transect the stomach and is performed laparoscopically. His web site can be viewed @ www.clos.net.
   — jjames-thomas