Question:
What would you do?

I recently found out that I have a stoma that is "wide-open". This could be a big reason why I haven't lost any weight since 1 year, and have now gained 16+ pounds back. My surgeon says there is a new technique out there that can tighten the stoma. But he doesn't do it, he would refer me to doctor that does. I've always read (here) that nothing can be done if you have a large stoma. I've been beating myself up mentally for 6 months now (that I'm a failure). I would really like to do something to help improve my situation because I am not suceeding in "dieting" at all. Read my profile for more details. Thanks!    — [Deactivated Member] (posted on December 8, 2003)

December 8, 2003
I would certainly explore it if insurance would cover it.
   — snicklefritz

December 8, 2003
I would definitely look into it. Once you get more information, then you can decide what to do. I would guess that whether or not something could be done would depend on the structure of your pouch, the new technique, and the surgeon's skill. It's certainly worth a visit.
   — Vespa R.

December 8, 2003
I also have recently heard of a new procedure that can be done to fix this but only a few docs do it. I say go for it. After all you didn't have this surgery just to regain your weight after all you have gone thru.
   — Delores S.

December 8, 2003
I have (had) this problem as well. Its a problem that has been out 'here' for years; and covered up but is coming to light. And PRE OPS need to know that is CAN happen to them if they have the RNY. It is NOT something a person did; it just happens from day one. According to the Bariatic association surgeons have know about this problem for years, failed to fix it so revert their patients to diet and excerise. I would be interested in knowing what "IT" is that the doctor is doing. At one time I had heard a doctor in Vermont doing something, but not sure successfully. To fix mine, I just had the lap band put on to act as an artifical stoma. Normal 'fill' did not work; but last week a full fill... has actually WORKED. I now have food limitations for the first time in 3 years. The band has been used to 'fix' but not sure if I am the only one in the US.. but I can say it is working... i wasnt really thrilled with the idea of having something inside - but the anquish of NOT having my RNY fixed was worst. Also, since this was a 'repair' of the RNY; my insurance company covered it tho normally they dont cover the lap band.
   — star .

December 8, 2003
I recently heard of a new way to cinch up the stoma, it is a simple proceedure, done down the neck, and cinched up tighter, with a scope similar to that in a endoscopy. From the simplistic description I heard (from a surgeon)it is quite safe, and effective. However, there is a fight going on to get insurance companies to cover it. The ongoing fight, of course. I am not certain if this is what you were referring to, but at any rate, I would go for it, If it was needed, and I was given the chance. I wish you luck.
   — TameraD

December 8, 2003
Would you minds being a little more specific? What is this procedure, other than it involves a scope? And, who is the doctor that does this? We have quite a few people on the Grad list who would be interested in this information.
   — Leslie F.

December 8, 2003
Original poster here. I don't have any more details. I hope to find out more when I have a consult with this doctor. His name is Christopher Thompson, and he works out of Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston Massachusetts. They have a web site, and he has one page, it says he is a specialist in endoscopic procedures, or something like that. I'll post again when I have answers.
   — [Deactivated Member]