Question:
Multiple pouch opening dielations and more to come

I am 2 years post op from RNY done by Dr. Chan in Orange California. I have never really felt well since the procedure but have lost 150 lbs. Last year an endoscopy found that the opening to my pouch had healed down to the size of a pencil lead. I have since had 7 more Endoscopys to dielate this to the size of a quarter. The last dielation was 8 weeks ago and I am sick again, Another Endosopy yesterday determined I am closing up again. They are going to do a dielation every two weeks for the next several months hoping to keep it open. If this does not work they will discuss "Corrective Surgery" with me. Has anyone out there had a similar issue or know what steps can be taken? My food intake is so eratic that I am starting to have complications from low protien intake. Any help would be appreciated.    — Kim_Butler (posted on March 1, 2008)

March 1, 2008
Hi Kim, I had a stricture (blockage) and they fixed it in one procedure. Another gal I know had to go back 3 times. They put a stint in to keep it open for her. I'm sorry that you are having these problems. I understand they are rare but hang in there. I am sure you are much healthier with the weight you have lost. This too shall pass and you can be there for other's that go through the same problem.
   — Claudia C.

March 1, 2008
I am sorry to hear you are having these problems. Hopefully they will fix it soon.
   — Carlyn M.

March 1, 2008
I am so sorry that you are having this problem. I have had the RNY, too, but I had a gastric stapling 25 years ago. With that surgery, I had to have a correction. I after about a year I could not even hold liquids down. My surgeon reinforced the opening to my pouch with a mesh fiber to keep it open. The recovery time was not quite as long, but still had to go through the same steps. I never had the issue again. Hang in there, it can be fixed and then you will feel so much better! Hope this helps. Kim
   — kcox1960

March 2, 2008
I had a stricture and could not drink or keep liquids or foods down first starting a year after wls. I went in and had it fixed and was told it could happen again. I was told to chew my foods very well and sip not gulp. I have a lot of scar tissue from before wls and with acid reflux being so bad. I hoipe you can get this fixed and so to feel better.
   — mspisces