Question:
What kind of life threatening complications can occur

during or after surgey that could cause death. I don't want to scare anyone or think negatively but I've been reading the memorial page and I noticed that alot of these people seemed like they should have come through the surgey just fine. Also, is there anyone here that had an RNY when they first started preforming it - what 10 or so years ago? And are you having any problems with it?    — K T. (posted on March 11, 2001)

March 11, 2001
There are a number of complications that can happen. Your surgeon should tell you about them prior to surgery and should be able to give you an idea of any specific risks related to your health. Keep in mind that everyone is different. Really no different than any other surgery. I had a couple of complications that set back my recovery. The good news is that my surgeon was top notch and watched me very closely. I an now well on my way to a thinner, healthier life. Your concern is normal. Best of luck to you!!!
   — Terri D.

March 11, 2001
My best friend had the surgery 17 years ago....and is doing great...her weight has fluctuated over the years between 5 & 15 pounds....she has had no complications - However, she is in the early stages of osteoporesis...but 17 years ago, the emphasis was not on women and bone density....just remember to follow all your surgeon's instructions....I hope this helps!! Karan
   — chance2lv

March 11, 2001
I know that death from this surgery is very rare. In reality, the risk of death from not having the surgery is probably much greater for many of us. When I first started reading this site, I would look through the memorials, but I came to believe that I would rather die fighting this disease than have it kill me through (another)heart attack or my deteriorating diabetes, etc. This attitude kept me calm through the surgery, and after four months, I couldn't be happier that I did it.
   — KG B.

July 29, 2003
I just experienced a life-threatening cardiac complication during an attempted lap RNY. Just after they made a couple of incisions to start the procedure, I developed severe bradycardia (slow heartrate). My blood pressure dropped and my heart slowed down to 3 beats per minute. I was given atropine which almost immediately corrected the problem. Just to be on the safe side, they terminated the operation and sent me to ICU overnight. A cardiologist was called in but after extensive testing, they could find nothing wrong with my heart. My doctor explained that it was most likely an automatic central nervous system reponse (vasal vagus nerve compression) to either the anesthesia and/or to the positioning of my body after the introduction of the carbon dioxide gas into my abdomen for the laproscopic procedure. I am told that I can still have the laproscopic procedure but that they will need to attach a temporary pacemaker to my heart during the surgery. Needless to say, I'm going to take the warning that complications can occur much more seriously next time. But I'm still going through with it, no matter what. If you want something badly enough, you must be willing to live with the risks. Good luck and many prayers for a safe journey.
   — etaylor58