Question:
Although previously scheduled for RNY, now I have to get a VBG.

I have very low calcium, and had been scheduled for an RNY, but after my surgeon doing research and lots of lab work, decided that the RNY was too risky, and there was not a good way to supplement the calcium level I needed to maintain. I was crushed, since this was decided 2 days prior to my actual surgery date! He said that a VBG would be a good option for me. Has anyone else had to switch surgeries due to any medical reasons? I guess I just feel so crushed, because the VBG was definitely not my choice. At least it wasnt a definite "no" though! =) THanks!    — Wendy S. (posted on August 17, 2000)

August 17, 2000
If it were me, I'd get a second opinion. Find another surgeon and see if they come to the same conclusion.
   — Roseann M.

August 17, 2000
I'd be RUNNING for a second opinion! What do they mean there's no way to be sure you get enough calcium? What about the 80% of the population who are lactose intolerant? I think you can manage to take a calcium supplement, along with the other supplements you need! Please don't be victimized by ignorance! You can get what you want be healthy, too! Explore the supplementation available and when you present yourself to Dr #2, show him that you know you will be nutritionally compromised in protein, iron, calcium, A, D, E, zinc and B12 AND here's how you plan to supplement yourself, so that you win all around. Less weight, better labs than EVER in your life when you were perpetually dieting!
   — vitalady

August 17, 2000
I agree with the other Ladies here. I would go for a second opinion. I would never let anyone operate on me, if I had a bad or negative feeling about the operation. I wouldn't want to go into surgery that way. Michelle Curan can help you with supplements and getting in Calcium and other vitamins and minerals. Maybe you could really work on getting these in now before surgery. I was told to double all of my vitamins and supplements before surgery, Maybe you need to increase your doses now. Definetly get more information and a second opinion. Good luck, Carin
   — C S.

August 18, 2000
Hi Wendy...a second opinion is certainly in store; however, I wanted to share my mom's experience with calcium supplements. She has osteoporosis, and every two years or so, the calcium supplements cause kidney stones and infections that require outpatient procedures. Now, she is 70 years old, and maybe that has something to do with it, but you may want to talk to your doctor/nutritionist about the safest way to absorb calcium without developing kidney stones...good luck to you.
   — Allie B.

August 18, 2000
Calcium is mainly absorbed in the duodenum, the first section of the small intestine. RnY patients have most or all of their duodenum bypassed, which makes it harder to keep calcium levels up. In your case, your surgeon may be right that RnY is too risky for you, but he has failed to mention that you do have another option besides VBG. In the duodenal switch, part of the duodenum is left in the food path, so calcium absorption is closer to normal. Ask your surgeon about this option, or find another surgeon who does DS and consult with him about your situation. Good Luck!
   — Lynn K.

August 18, 2000
Thanks to all of you who responded. I definitely have some more research to do. thanks! =)
   — Wendy S.

August 18, 2000
Melanie...please email me. Roseann
   — Roseann M.