Question:
LapRNY v Lap Band

I don't know if I have been asleep at the switch or what, but today I found out, during one of my pre-op consultations, that Lap RNY and Lap Band are not the same thing. I swear I have read about all the surgery "types" but just somehow lumped the Lap procedures together in my head (obviously). My dr. only does Lap RNY and in my head, I thought I was having lapband so I haven't really been paying attention to Lap RNY issues. My doctor is new to gastric bypass but a laproscopic master. I have been through all the testing and only have the surgical consult left. Any reason to turn back now? Thanks!    — susanje (posted on December 4, 2002)

December 4, 2002
The two procedures are VERY different, and I would make sure you research the RNY thoroughly and not just make your decision based on the fact that the testing has already been completed. You are committing yourself to a complete lifestyle change FOREVER, you need to be fully informed about your decision. I personally would also be a little concerned about a physician who is new to gastric bypass, BARIATRIC laproscopic surgery is a specialty unto itself. Best of luck to you in whatever you decide! Linda, Open RNY 10/21/02 (-40)
   — Linda 1.

December 4, 2002
STOP immediately and think about what you are saying.....you need to investigate a lot more. These procedures are soooo different. One is reversable one is not considered reversable. One has big lifestyle changes required, not to mention vitamins, lab work and regular follow up for the rest of you life. You need to see which procedure will work best for you. And as for your doctor. I dont care how many laparoscopy's hes done....if he hasnt done many R-N-Y procedures , I wouldnt let him try on me...It is a very complex procedure. And there are risks...why add to them...it took a while for the doctors that do the open procedure to get comfortable with the lap procedure. I dont want to sound negative or too critical. The intention of this site is to educate and support people in whatever decision they make for them self. Knowledge is empowering and you need to know what you are getting in to. It is your body, and your life. All the preop work can be applied to whichever procedure you choose to have. If you are like most of us, you have been going though this process for a while. It is truely tempting to jump in and take whats offered. Just do the research first...then ifyou decide its what you want, and is best for you, go foward with it. Also look at the doctors qualifications to do the RNY, not just a lap. Does he offer losts of support, information, nutritional help, support groups, etc......Just take the time to consider it very carefully....good luck !!!!
   — Keniki B.

December 4, 2002
Thanks for the advice. Actually I found that I had applied most of the LAP RNY information (diet, possible complications, malabsorption information) to the LapBand and not the other way around. The only thing I really had confused was the procedure itself. All the other information (pre and post op) I had in mind was for the LAP RNY.
   — susanje