Question:
what determines whether or not a person has an open or lap RNY?

i have heard that the amount of scaring and/or lesions determines if a person has an open or a lap. i have never had surgery, but my BMI IS ABOUT 60. PLEASE LET ME KNOE. THANKS    — ladyboo (posted on July 15, 2003)

July 14, 2003
First it depends on what surgery the physician performs, scar tissue from past surgies, and also the size of patient. Sometimes they start with a LAP but then have to do an Open because of difficulties. My choice would have been LAP and then Open. If you go with someone who only does Open then make sure they don't make really long incisions if possible.
   — Starrlina

July 14, 2003
Well I had no choice of the matter. after telling the surgeon my medical history, he decided to do the open, because I had past operations and because how I carried my weight. and how much I weighed.
   — Naes Wls J.

July 15, 2003
I chose Lap and searched out a Dr who specialized in that type of surgery. Some Dr's do Lap only and some do only open. Some Dr's do certain BMI's as a Lap and others Open, then there is a modified open as well which blends the 2 surgeries. Scaring, Lesions and overall physical health (risk level) are some of the factors a Doctor considers when deciding which s/he would prefer to do on you (if s/he does both). You do however, play a part in that choice. My mother-in-law had a BMI over 60 and she succesfully had LAP 3 mos ago.
   — M B.