Ohio State University Medical Center Hospital
I had my appointment with him and met him today(4/20/04). He is awesome!!!! His staff was nice and he could not have had more time for me and yet I researched this for over 2years and he still told me things I didnt know. He has it to a science and tells you what you need to and want to know. He is very very respected by his peers around the state as well as Drs out of state. I know for a fact and have spoken to patients that have traveled far from south out of state to just be able to have him. I feel so much better talking and meeting him now that sure im little nervous but he really made me comfortable! Aftercare is soooo important and they make sure you know everything and dont think any question is too stupid to call and ask. He explained all the risks as well and his bedside manner was just wonderful so im very pleased to not only have a skilled surgen that is respected by peers and patients from all over but one who is very kind man and really cares about people.
I was very pleased with my experience with Dr. Needleman. My first impression of him was that he was very confident, knowledgeable and honest. He did not pretend that this is a cure, only a tool. He truly cares about his patients and their success. His program requires patients to have a dietary assessment, dietary counseling pre-op, a psychological evaluation and counseling if necessary. It takes time to get in and get through all the requirements, but is well worth it. He wants his patients to have the tools to get through this journey and do well post op. He absolutely told me all the risks and advised that he may not be able to do the surgery laparoscopically. He also told me post surgery that if at any time I felt something was wrong or that I was not moving forward as far as feeling better, to call him right away, do not wait. He said he would get me in immediately to see what might be wrong. I did have a problem with a stricture. (The opening where my stomach empties closed up due to scar tissue.) He had warned me of this possible complication prior to the surgery. I had a little trouble with the resident in the ER (it was on a weekend). However, he contacted Dr. Needleman who had me admitted immediately to get me rehydrated and have a scope done asap. I highly recommend him for this surgery. The office staff is okay. I think that they are overwhelmed with patients and people applying for surgery, so at times they seem a little indifferent. However, overall I was happy with them also.
My first impression of Dr. Needleman was good. Even though I waited an hour past my appointment time, I took that time to chat with my fellow patients in his waiting room. They all seemed to like his work and all were doing well.
Suzy from his office was very energetic and friendly and will be nice to work with.
Because the OSU program is so very structured, Dr. Needleman's patient's should have as much knowledge as they need before and after surgery. I was very well prepared for my journey.
We discussed the risks of surgery in general, and my personal risks in particular and I'm quite comfortable with Dr. Needleman's knowledge.
Overall, I happy with Dr. Needleman and look forward to seeing him real soon!
When I met with Dr. Needleman I was pleased with his attitude. He made me feel very comfortable and he explained everything I needed to know. I had a long list of questions, but by the time he finished talking he had answered the majority of my questions. I only had a few I needed to ask. His secretary "Suzy" is just a bundle of joy. She is so pleasant and makes everyone feel very welcomed. His nurse "Karen" was very helpful and pleasant as well. I'll have more to say about Dr. Needleman once I've had my surgery..lol.
UPDATE: had my surgery 1/12/04 and everything went perfect. No complications, no NG Tube! My scars are barely noticeable!
Thank you so much Doctor Needleman for performing my surgery and giving me the opportunity to use this tool so I can finally see the inner person.