Question:
Can I get Approved for a 2nd VBG?

I had VBG under Aetna insurance in 2001 and lost around 70 pounds. I am 5'3" tall and now weigh 199. I can't budge another ounce, and am pre diabetic. No other co-morbidities that I know of. Will High Mark Blue Sheild pay for another VBG since I was under Aetna with the other one. Don't want RNY, but may consider lap band. HELP! I so want to get to my goal! PLEASE, SOMEONE ANSWER!    — beth N. (posted on June 27, 2004)

June 27, 2004
Beth, Have you considered the BPD/DS? I have several friends who had failed VBG who had their surgery converted to DS. Check out www.duodenalswitch.com - it's a great resource. I'm about to leave for Spain in the morning, but when I get back, if you'll email me, I can put you in touch with some of my friends who have had their original VBG converted. Okay? Blessings, dina
   — Dina McBride

June 27, 2004
You have to remember that this is a tool and not a fast fix.
   — Whitney S.

June 28, 2004
Beth, one of our members on the Grad list was just revised from her failed VBG (due to a broken staple line) to a repaired VBG. I don't know the answer to your insurance question because all plans & companies are different, but yes, if their conditions are met, it is certainly possible. Good luck!
   — Leslie F.

June 28, 2004
Beth: Again, the answer depends on your insurance. However, many surgeons are phasing out this procedure. The failure rate is to high. I myself speak from experience with a disrupted staple line and a total of only 45 lbs. lost(the other 15 lbs. were my own) after only appx 6 mos. I've since consulted with my surgeon, he said it made no sense that I pursue another VBG (revision) because it can has a good chance of failing again. I am now in the process of a conversion to an RNY. Good luck to you on whatever choice you make. -Michelle
   — Chelli

June 28, 2004
Why not the RNY? My surgeon Dr Philip Schauer says the 5 year VBG failure rate is 85%, so you have lots of company:( The tight band encourages eating junk food that goes down easy, like chips and high calorie liquids, while good choices like steak get stuck on the tight band. <P> I recommend you do lots of research VBG failure posts come up here constantly.
   — bob-haller

June 28, 2004
Hey your a pittsburger:) Please attend our supoport group meeting! Its the first wednesday of each month at montefiore. dr schauers group does liots of VBG revisions. you can ask about the lap band option too. everyone is welcome, please come by and say hi. July is my 3rd anniversary, I am planning something special:)
   — bob-haller

June 29, 2004
Beth, have you been to have a scope done to see if there is a problem, like a staple line disruption? That is what happened to me with my VBG and it is very common. I chose to revise to an RNY (6/16/04)because I was terrified of gaining the 110 pounds back that I had lost. I was already on my way with 30 pounds back on. If you have a staple line disruption, that is considered a complication and most insurances will usually pay to have it fixed. But I'm pretty sure you'll need medical proof there is a problem, otherwise they might just assume you were non-compliant with the rules. Good luck.
   — KRISTI K.