Question:
Do you have Barrett's Esophagus and have had Gastric Bypass Surgery??

I am seeking those who have Barrett's Esophagus and have had Gastric Bypass Surgery. I would like to know how their surgery went and what kind of follow ups they have had since surgery concerning their esophagus condition. As much as it sounds like this surgery would help me, I surely wouldn't want to do anything to make matters worse. What has your Gastrointestinal doctor said about having this surgery? Thank you for any and all information you can provide.    — SouthernMagnolia B. (posted on August 29, 2003)

August 29, 2003
What is Barrett's Esophagus? I have several conditions relating to my esophagus, hiatal hernia, and a ring around my esophagus. My gastro doc had no problem with my having the surgery. But then again that might not be very helpful to you since I haven't a clue as to what Barretts Esophagus is.
   — Rosa F.

August 29, 2003
Maggie, I have barrett's and had WLS 3.5 months ago and lost 77 lbs so far. My surgeon told me without the WLS I have a 30% chance of getting esophogeal cancer. WLS reduces that risk to 1%. You are actually helping yourself to have the gastric bypass, because it reduces your cancer risk GREATLY. I have had absolutely no problems at all, but was told I would have to be "scoped" yearly to see how things look. I feel God saved my life by letting me have the surgery.
   — Happy I.

August 29, 2003
Hi Maggi...I had/have that. It's caused by acid reflux disease/GERD. Basically, it's just damage to your esophagus caused by stomach acids entering that area. Doctor's have linked Barrett's to cancer, which is why a biopsy is necessary. My doctors have been in agreement that WLS actually helps to heal that since stomach acids are no longer an issue. The portion of the stomach used after WLS produces minimal amounts of acids and the pouch empties fairly quickly, preventing reflux. I was told to have another endoscopy w/biopsy in about a year just to be sure it's still not cancerous. I have not had ANY incidences of acid reflux/heartburn since surgery. That's a huge change since I was popping ROLAIDS daily before surgery. Having surgery should only help Barrett's, not worsen it. Of course, as we all commonly disclaim: Check with your surgeon/internist for clarification. Barrett's is definitely a health effect of Morbid Obesity. Go to this website for more info on Morbid Obesity & Barrett's. It explains things very simply: http://www.gastricbypass.com/gerd.htm Know this: You will most likely only HELP your situation by having the surgery...don't worry!
   — Amy A.

August 29, 2003
For those who do not know what Barrett's is, it is a condition that developed from severe acid reflux causing the stomach lining to actually start growing up into your esophagus to try and protect the esophagus from all the stomach acid.
   — Happy I.

August 29, 2003
Way back all my problems started as just GERDS causing chronic Esophagitis. I lost weight and things got much better, however, with time, the ole' weight crept back and my problems got worse, changing the diagnosis from GERDS to Barrett's. My Gastro doctor told me I would never be able to have Gastric Bypass surgery.... I didn't ask any why that was then because that was the furtherist thing from my mind (I wasn't near as heavy as I am now) I have scheduled an appointment with my Gastro to hear what he has to say about this desired surgery. I'm hoping that he will tell me that "modern" medicine says it's a good thing to have this surgery. Thank you all for your posting replies here. I just really want to hear/read all I can about this situation before I get in too deep. Again, thank you!
   — SouthernMagnolia B.

August 29, 2003
Well I have heard of "Barrett's Esophagus ". But didn't really understand what it was till I have read through these post's. I have the name of Barrett but it's not for me! Good Luck.
   — Jenny B.