Question:
Any one with Crohn's and post-WLS?

Before my Gastroenterologist (GI) would sign off on one of these WLS, he would want to communicate with the GI doc of a post-op patient to get short- and long-term reports. He is concerned that if he ever has to take out my colon, there wouldn't be much left to attach to anything. (Obviously, my layman's terms!) Any information appreciated.    — Norman R. (posted on November 18, 1999)

January 22, 2000
If you have the VBG (banded gatroplasty) They don't take your stomach out- they just staple part of it off at the top and your food is processed the same as it always was - you just put smaller amounts in it at a time. I had the beginnings to Chron's - they weren't sure if it was that or Irritable bowel - But the dirahhea was awful, but now post op I hardly ever have that problem
   — Pat B.

January 24, 2000
I was told most of my life by many doctors I had Chron's disease. Then all the sudden at 30 I have ulcerative colitus. Of course you know thats not much better news. I have it in the lowest colon now. No Chron's ,just scar tissue where it healed. AND I just had the gastric bypass. They had to view my gastologists records and do extensive testing on me that is beyond what most patients have done. I can only tell you I wanted to die after surgery for about 6 days. Because of our condition it can be more painful. Then life was GREAT!!! Things are getting much better. So hang in there and find a doc that will work with your gastrologist. And a warning. Gastrologists hate this surgery. But remember, thats just because that's what they do!
   — [Anonymous]

March 31, 2000
I have had ulcerative colitis for years, a close, but not quite as severe reletive of chron's. Before I could be approved for WLS, my Dr's went to great lenghths to make sure that I did not have chron's disease, because that could be very dangerous down the road. Ulcerative colitis stays in the colon, where chron's can travel all over your digestive system, including your stomach. At least, this is what all of my doctors explain to me. Good luck!
   — April W.