Question:
Why aren't these two tests done before other types of surgery?

Just curious. What is it about WLS that requires me to have the PFT and a Sleep Study before surgery. I have had a few other surgeries and been heavy at the time, however never once has it been brought up? Seems to me like it should of been. I always tell the surgeon that I have asthma and that anesthetic makes me nauseous, but that's about it. I don't believe I have sleep apnea or any symptoms. I just found it strange that either they weren't careful enough before, or they are being extra careful now! Ever crossed anyone elses mind?    — Angela T. (posted on October 27, 2003)

October 27, 2003
Could be that you are dealing with someone who KNOWS obesity now. No one tested me for much for other surgeries before. And in fact, took me into surgery even with saggy iron levels. Good thing my doc made me be tested for those things, as I had severe sleep apnea, light asthma and ended up waiting 11 months for my surgery! By making a nuisance of himself & his silly tests, he saved my life, I'm certain. Twice. (OK, 3 times if you could my revision)
   — vitalady

October 27, 2003
I don't think there is anything particular about WLS that requires these tests. If you needed heart bypass they (doctor, hospital, etc) would not demand these prior to surgery. Unfortunately, far too many short sighted insurers react negatively to WLS just to control weight. Nevermind the overwhelming long term health benefits - such as the prevention or arresting of diebitis. The only consider the short term economics. To that end many insureres requier co-morbidity factors, such as sleep apnea, diebitis, degenerative joint desease, etc. Consequently, patients must endure - and insurers pay for - endless tests before WLS approval. Sleep apnea is commonly associated with weight. Many patients may not know they suffer from it. They feel lethargic, exhausted and irritable, but fail to recognize the root cause. Severe sleep apnea can cause heart damage. Therefore it is a prime target for doctors evaluating a patient for WLS. Obviously each case is different and my suggestion is to discuss the specifics of your case. However, the diagnosis of sleep apnea greatly strengthens your hand with your insurer. Even if already approved, testing for sleep apnia may help you identify additional health need or, better yet, ease you mind. Finally, the letigious situation doctors find themselves in forces many needless (and expensive ) tests upon patients. Should an unforseen complication arise, and the tests were not performed - even if not indicated - then the sugeon and hospital could be embroiled in legal ranglings for years. Consequently doctors will order endless tests cover themselves. (And we wonder why insurance rates a through the roof!). Best wishes and good luck.
   — Santiago F.

October 27, 2003
Because of being MO were all high risk patients. Surgeons want us to be successful. If you check out the memorial page you will find members there who died becuse of undiagnosed sleep apnea. My surgeon says its not the known problems that cause trouble its the unknown ones, espically in combination. So your surgeon is a concerned person for your safety:) THATS GREAT:)
   — bob-haller

October 27, 2003
Both prove or disprove common co-morbids. Many people have these problems and don't know it, yet both co-morbids are one's that an insurance company recognizes as costly long term.
   — M B.

October 27, 2003
I just had a sleep study done. I thought I might have "mild" apnea issues. My results came back that I have severe apnea. So I am now awaiting my Cpap machine and grateful that I requested the test. Neither my internist nor my surgeon thought my symptoms pointed to a serious apnea problem. So, we were all fooled by my lack of some of the traditional symptoms.
   — Arizona_Sun

October 28, 2003
I think that certain tests are done for WLS to help people get approved or becuase insurance requires that certain things be ruled out. It really doesn't make sense that only WLS patient have to endure the test they due. Its insane how long the entire process is and that people actually die waiting for surgery.
   — Renee B.