Question:
I have a question about VBG vs. RNY. I have read through the library...

and have gotten everyones opinion on the weight loss issue, success rate, etc. THIS IS MY CONCERN -- while my surgeon and I both feel that I could lose weight w/the ABG, we both agree that I am not the ideal candidate for that surgery. It looks as if RNY is my best bet for success. HOWEVER, I have been doing extensive research, and I am very concerned about the LONG TERM effects of this surgery. A lot of what I am reading links GB to organ failure and even autoimmune conditions such as MS and Parkinson's. I am considering WLS to improve and prolong my life. Any thoughts?    — Jennifer W. (posted on June 4, 2002)

June 4, 2002
my thoughts: ABG isn't the same as the VBG, and I have never heard of the RNY causing MS or Parkinsons (sp?)
   — Jeff B.

June 4, 2002
Have you been looking at Sue W.'s website? Be sure to do your research on valid medical sites. There's alot of misinformation out there on the web. Also be sure to differentiate between the old version of the by-pass and the newer RNY. There are potential risks/complications w/ any surgery, both short and long term, so you do have to weigh your options. However, depending on your health, the percentages are vastly in your favor, and steps can be taken to avoid the long term dangers resulting from vitamin deficiencies (ex. anemia and osteoporosis).
   — mom2jtx3

June 4, 2002
The VBG was a mistype -- i'm well versed on the difference. Thanks for pointing that out. Although I have come accross Sue W's stuff, I can see that she is a little zealous in her anti-wls campaign. :o) I have dug deeper than that -- found some studies/reports that have been done. At least 2-3 refer to damage to the nervous system and mention autoimmune disorders. Of course, the patients being studied had surgery 10+ years ago. Maybe I should expand the question -- what is the difference in the RNY now and then that would make it safer as far as long term complications are concerned? And how do we respond to story's like the one posted last night about Rachel? I AM NOT trying to be negative or nay say RNY -- I only want to do what's best for myself both short term and in the long run... thanks for taking the time to help me out.
   — Jennifer W.

June 4, 2002
One wonders what exact surgery they had, what post-op program they followed. Would their problems have happened had they had better follow up? Who knows? Malnutrition WILL result in organ failure. That is a sure thing. But it can be avoided. I'm 8 yrs out, I know others further out, who are fine. Not perfect (who is?), but not suffering from any a/i diseases. But they all supplemented their nutrition, too.
   — vitalady

June 4, 2002
It is really sad that all doctors who perfom these surgeries do not take the time and effort to learn and educate their patient for proper aftercare. The RNY that can "cause" all these problems can be avioded by taking supplements..Nervous system problems are directly related to B-12...I do not know why ALL RNY people are not getting B-12 injections from the beginning..A good multivitamin, Iron supplement, A&D supplement, and Protein & water. They are the basics and will keep all those problems away..Period! If your doctor does not do adequate follow-up and prescribe supplements..I would go somewhere else.I could not believe that I would read about people newly post-op and feeling tired, run down and feeling like this is a bad decision and it all could be corrected with proper vitamins! Very sad. Tricia openRNY/distal 12/10/01 77lbs gone
   — Patricia R.