Question:
Did anyone see the channel 5 news about the new wls that is going on in Chicago?

I am looking for a link or info on what was on the Chicago channel 5 news last night (05/26/03). I missed it and so many people are talking about the new type of wls that is suposed to be much better than rny, less risks complications ect. and a much higher sucess rate. I have not had any luck finding anything about this. Please, if anyone knows what I am talking about and knows where I can find the info abouth this new type of surgery please let me know. Thank you! Sue    — sue S. (posted on May 28, 2003)

May 27, 2003
I wonder if they are talking about the adjustable band surgery. It is fairly new and does have less complications? I don't know about it being more effective though.
   — Heather S.

May 27, 2003
Sue, I didn't see it but I've heard others mentioning it. Apparently it was a report on BPD/DS. It's not a new surgery at all, although it's not as widely known as the RNY. You can find information about it following these two links. One is the duodenal website, the other is the duodenal Yahoo group. It's certainly a good idea to be aware of ALL options. Good luck. Rob http://groups.yahoo.com/group/duodenalswitch http://www.duodenalswitch.com/
   — Rob P.

May 27, 2003
I had the BPD/DS in September of 2002. This procedure is not new but is very successful with great long term results. I went to John Husted in Nashville, Tennessee. He has a website that is very informative regarding this surgery. Take a look and do all of your research before choosing any procedure. Good Luck!! Theresa
   — Theresa A

May 28, 2003
Yes, I've heard others mentioning that news report as well, and it was about the DS. The DS is a procedure that involves more malabsorption than the typical RNY, but less restriction. Because of the greater malabsorption, DS patients can expect to lose about 90% of their excess weight and experience very little regain. We are able to eat larger meals than RNY patients, with very few food restrictions (no dumping syndrome). Studies show that the DS is very safe and effective, and that the results "stick" over time. The biggest downside is that DS patients have to be especially careful to take appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements for life. As mentioned below, there is lots of good information about this procedure available at www.duodenalswitch.com. I had the DS and I love it -- couldn't be happier!
   — Tally

May 28, 2003
I watched the broadcast!The interviewer was Dr. Deanna Lites of Channel 5 NBC. The DS Duodenal Switch was performed at University of Chicago Illinois it's 'new' for this hospital. The surgeon they interviewed was Dr. Vivek Prachand. I'm pretty sure he & Dr. John Alverdy are partners. It was mentioned that people who have more than 100lbs to lose or are over 300lbs have better success w/DS. The success rate drops from 75% to 50% with RNY. This link posted at nbc.com web site (http://clos.net/ about mini bypass)which I'm don't think is the same surgery. Also, I couldn't find any other info. on NBC5.com website referencing the broadcast!!??!! EEE GADS...I'm pre-op for open RNY & now I'm having doubts!! Oh well I'll go where my insurance goes!! Best Luck!
   — Vicki V.