Question:
Risks of surgery?

Hi I am still new to this site, but I have heard all the wonderful stories out there of all the weight loss, but the only bad thing that I have heard is the "dumping". And also the few people that have passed away from this. I am so scared when I read that. I am from Ohio, and have a insurance Company now looking for Insurance for my family and me. I am wanting to have this done so badly, but when I read the bad things, or people's journals that I get a knot in my stomach. But I need to know what the risks are before I jump into this. Also, when you get a insurance company, how long do you have to wait before going too the BTC? If I didnt post this right, Im sorry, first time posting a question. Thanks. Allison    — allison F. (posted on August 5, 1999)

August 5, 1999
Don't be afraid of dumping! Dumping is your friend! If you're going to have the surgery, you want to lose weight, right? If you hang out with sugar, you won't get all the weight off that you want. So. Consider that dumping is like a cattle prod. Every time you veer off the path, you get a poke. As long as you stay away from things that can mess with your weight loss, you won't dump. It's a safety feature. Unfortunately, it seems the vast majority do NOT get it.
   — vitalady

August 8, 1999
Any abdominal operation is major surgery, with substantial risk, particularly in patients who are seriously overweight. In general known complications which accompany this surgery are the same as for any operation of the stomach. The risk of dying from Roux-en-Y Gastroplasty is slightly less than 1%. About 10% of patients have some trouble with their hearts or lungs postop, and 2% develop pneumonia. About 10% develop a blood clot in their legs ("thrombophlebitis") and in 2% of patients, the blood clot may go to the lungs (pulmonary embolus). Perforation or leak from the surgical connections occurs in about 2% of cases. The spleen may be inujured in 1-2% of cases. Gaseous distention of the lower part of the stomach in the early postop period is rare but may require reoperation. Then there are the less-serious problems. Wound problems such as bleeding (2%) or infection (5%). Incisional hernia may eventually develop in about 10% of cases. The pouch opening into the intestine may (up to 15%) ulcerate or narrow over time, causing excessive weight loss or persistent vomiting. The staple line partitioning the stomach may give way (5-10%). Vitamin or mineral deficiencies may occur. 25% or more of patients may develop gallstones during weight loss unless the gallbladder is removed. So dumping is actually considered a nuisance complication along with hair loss (20%) and dietary intolerances. I received all the above from my surgeon and was very thankful to have the information before making this life changing decision.
   — dboat