University of Minnesota Physicians Bariatric Center
Although I've only had contact with him--so far--at my initial consult, I was impressed by him. Not only was he frank and honest about possible complications and long-term success, he seemed genuinely excited about helping people. He said to me, "I love watching you guys shrink as you come back for you follow-up visits." Also, I've read a lot about him on the internet and he is mentioned in Barbara Thompson's book as one of the surgeons that helped develop the current laparoscopic procedure.
His staff has been very nice and helpful, but they are extremely busy and seem a little overwhelmned sometimes. I think if you remain calm and be nice when you talk to them, you will always get that same consideration back from them.
I first met Dr. Ikramuddin at his support group apx 3 months before my consult with him and from the get-go, I knew that he was who I wanted to perform my surgery. I had heard about several other doctors in my area who do weight loss surgery, but I take bedside mannor into consideration more than anything else.
When I went to my consult on October 31, 2002, Dr. Ikramuddin had to do emergency surgery so the meeting was more hectic and unorganized than normal. We first talked with the dietian, his nurse, his secratary, ect..... as a group, and then Dr. Ikramuddin came in and we were able to ask him questions. After this was over, we all went into private rooms and met with him one-on-one. He answered every single question that my mother and I had, understood why I am chosing the Lap-Band over RNY, explained all of the risks/benifits to both....was very personable and kind.
I have many medical problems, and Dr. Ikramuddin seems to sincerly want to help.
I am still pre-op (sometime in April 2003), so I do not know where he stands on aftercare and things of that nature.
He has wonderful stats.....done over 150,000 surgerys and only 3 deaths.
Overall, I have been VERY VERY impressed with Dr. Ikramuddin
I had my surgery at Fairview University Medical Center at the University of Minnesota. My surgen, Dr. Ikramuddin and his staff were wonderful. The office is very busy and some may feel put off by that at first, but once you get to know the staff, they are all helpful and kind. I found my questions were always answered. I go back to see my surgon every three months. The worst I can say is that it takes 2 hours for a 10 minute office vist. I don't like that. There is usually not enought exam rooms available and I have had to see someone in the hallway! Still not a big deal. I am treated with respect and kindness. On a scale of 1 - 5, 5 being the best, my doctor and his staff are a 5. My hospital stay was a 5. The clinic itself, because of the volume of patients seen, is a 3. Information given without asking 3, if you ask questions 5. These are just my view, of course.
Dr Ikramuddin is very capable surgeon. Theresa is a DOLL!!!!Donna is WONDERFUL!!!
THe hospital staff whilst I was there gets a ZERO rating from me. Poor care, whiny nurses, basic nursing cares were NOT given.THe best care I received during my stay was from a NAR who happend to answer my light.
My friend had this procedure done 2 weeks after I did. I informed her to have family members stay with her whilst she was in hospital to ensure good care.
Whilst in hospital I had several "resident" Dr.s enter my room announcing "who they were" and then grabbing the hospital gown for a 'lil look see' at the incisions.
Shame on the "new physicians" for poor, poor professionalism.
My first Impression of Dr. Ikramuddin was that he really new what he was talking about and explained all the types of surgeries, complications, risks and the benefits of having surgery very well. The office staff were very helpful especially Donna and Theresa. Always willing to answer questions even when they were very busy. One thing that is helpful too is Dr. Ikramuddin and Donna have a WLS support meeting the first Friday of the month at Southdale Mall (Edina) in the lower level by Marshalls and the meeting usually starts at 6:30 p.m. till approx. 8:00 p.m. and it is very helpful for preops and postops. I would rate Dr. Ikramuddin overall a 10 in my book. He was very kind, easy to ask questions of and knowing that he has done over 1,000 surgeries made me feel at ease for picking him as my surgeon. I think he has great bedside manner and surgical competance which in my eyes is terrific! The only thing I can say about the day of surgery is I did not see him before or after surgery. I would of liked to of seen him either before or after surgery. I do know he had 2 other surgeries besides mine to perform that day so I know he was really busy. My mom did speak with him after my surgery and she said he was very comforting and nice to answer any questions she had.
I finally got to see Dr. Ikramuddin on Oct.10th 2002 and he is a very nice Dr. sounds very positive in what he does. I like him. I also have my date, it is going to be Feb. 12 2003 or if this guy needs a later date it may be Jan.31 2003 all I know is that I finally have A DATE! I am vewry excited can't wait, it seems like forever. I will keep you up dated as it gets closer. Wish me luck! Nanetta