Complications - ThinnerTimes

LQQkn · 09-02-2007, 08:13 PM

Here is a list of minor bumps...as someone put it. I'm posting here because I'm just one bitchy azz right now, and I feel like it. Not only has this surgery devastated my health, but has devastated me financially as well. It was asked on the Claire thread why it's always a fight, let me make it real clear that it's a daily fight and struggle for me. I sort of know it's going to change soon, but right now I'm just really bitchy, and sick so I'm gonna put it on the record of things that can happen for all the newbies (and oldies) to read and ponder. This was not a list I compiled, (in my bitchiness) but one that was compiled by patients and doctors who have experience them. Now the BOLD highlights are the complications I've developed some from the get go, others over past 26 months and reasons reversal is scheduled for next Thursday. I bet if everyone read this list and honestly looked at them I speculate there are many who have a good number of these as well. Not too many here that I've read to be complication free, only remember 3 or 4 people who spoke up with NO complications. Janie

These complications can happen to
people without WLS but these have been confirmed by the patient’s
doctors as related to WLS.

Dehydration, Chronic Vomiting and Nausea, Stroke, Heart Attack,
Arrhythmia, Kidney stones, Kidney Failure, Liver Failure, Anemia, Deficiencies (B-12,potassium, iron, B-1, B-6, etc.), Malabsorbtion of supplements
(calcium, minerals, nutrients from food), Blurred Vision, Muscle and
Bone Pain, Loss of Teeth, Bleeding Gums, Rotting Teeth Due to
Vomiting Requiring Root Canals, Hypoglycemia, Headaches, Black
outs/Seizures, Lactose Intolerant, Injury to Spleen during surgery,
Coma, Paralysis/Blindness after coma, Osteoporosis, Burst Pouch,
Lupus, Auto-Immune Disease, Looped Intestines, Ruptured Esophagus
from vomiting, Misfired Stapler during surgery, Ulcers, Pneumonia/Lung
Problems, Arthritis, Weakness and Fatigue from Malnutrition, Overall
Pain, Metabolic Bone Disease, Food Blocking Stoma Causing Severe
Pain, Stoma Needing Stretched Repeatedly, Neuropathy, Beri Beri, Put
on Feeding Tubes/PICC Lines, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue,
Fistulas, Atrophy of Muscles, Hair Loss, Hernias, Blood Clots, Leaks,
Peritonitis, Heart Burn/Gerd/Acid Reflux, Bowel Obstructions,
Gallstones and Gallbladder Removal, Severe Depression, Anxiety, Loss
of Memory, Poor Concentration, Irregular Blood Pressure, Diarrhea,
Constipation, Opening Of Outer Incision-Needing Packing Until Healed
From The Inside Out, Insomnia/Sleep Disorders, Unforced Anorexia and
Bulimia, Gas, Silent Stroke, Vertigo, Malnutrition which is the cause
of many of the above problems, Many End Up Becoming Invalids, and
then there is death.
This list continues to grow.

These complications can happen right after surgery, days, weeks,
months, many years, and even when taking all the required
supplements.

Besides physical complications there is financial hardship and
families who are devastated.

kittens4 · 09-02-2007, 08:50 PM

It's good for people contemplating surgery to know all the facts. Still, I remember being all gung ho about the surgery, and glossing over the many possibilities. People will read this, and breeze right on with life..because once you decide you want the surgery, nothing will stop you. You know the risks, but you always think it won't happen to you. Chances are it won't happen to you....but there's always that possibility. Once it does, it sucks, and there's no turning back! I remember thinking how healthy I was...and how I'd sail through that surgery and be back to work in a week!! Well, I was out of work 2 and 1/2 months! I felt so great that first week after surgery. I woke up on Halloween morning last year, feeling great, and by night fall I was vomiting continually, in a lot of pain, and in the ER being admitted for an obstruction! I spent another week in the hospital, no food, just IV fluid and pain meds. I had to have a 2nd surgery, then went home, only to be re-admitted again 3 days later with pneumonia! (no breath sounds in the left lung! very serious!). So, I know all about "complications" and the sadness it brings. I remember thinking what the hell have I done! I was obese before, and at risk for major health problems, but I wasn't having any problems...so why did I do this to myself? I went through depression/anxiety. I still take Paxil and xanax for those issues. I was/am one of the VERY lucky ones. I've not had one moment of pain/nausea/or vomiting since that revision surgery. My weight is stable. I'd actually like to drop about 20 more pounds, but am happy for now. I eat pretty much anything in small doses, and am feeling great! I joined Golds Gym in January when I went back to work. It took me awhile to build my health and lungs up, but I have to say, today I feel better than I've ever felt! Even when I was younger and this thin, I didn't feel this good, because I smoked heavily back then. I quit smoking 8 years ago, and now have lost 107 pounds, so overall, I am WAY healthier than I was last year at this time. That being said, I think everyone does need to really weigh those risks and have a plan. I had savings and co-workers that donated time for me when I was off. You need to be prepared financially if you end up being off work for an extended period of time. You also need to make sure you have good insurance that will cover things like home heath/oxygen/etc. etc. My insurance covered all that, and even waived the co-pay for my last 2 admissions due to Physician errors..which I won't get into here...This post is already turning into a novel. To make a long story longer....I agree with the previous post...people need to be aware of complications! It's serious stuff! Not to be taken lightly. When you are the one having life altering complications, I don't think you are being "bitchy" by posting this...I think you are trying to make others aware so they can make an informed decision. People should appreciate it and take it to heart.

sdgrrl · 09-02-2007, 09:44 PM

IT MUST BE EMPHASIZED that these complications are not limited to the noncompliant patients who don't follow pouch rules. These things can happen to the most anal post op patients as well as the patients who assume everything is cool and just take care of problems as they come up. Being rich or well off, being very healthy--mind body and spirit--are not guaranteed an easy path. Complacency is dangerous--don't go there!

Dyann · 09-03-2007, 05:57 AM

I am not in disagreement with what you said about seriously thinking about all of these possible complications post op. They need to be thought through with a great deal of serious comtemplation.

But here is the flipside. NOT having the surgery has is own risks as well and why do you feel those are any less serious or expensive? Below is a list of complications of obesity that many of us already had, and this surgery is a way to improve them or cure them. Granted sometimes we are trading one disease (lets say diabetes) for malabsorption of vitamins. Being a doctor, I would take the vitamin malabsorption ANY DAY over anything on this list.

It is a question of knowing your evils and what you are up against. One is an active decision (to pursue surgery) so you have more control of putting yourself in harms way. Which is why you need to think seriously about it as knowing your evils doesn't protect you from them.

I knew what I would face if I didn't lose the weight and some of the immediate risks, which I am well aware of, were worth the risk for ME.

Type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes
Cardiovascular disease
Stroke
Hypertension
hypothyroidism
Dyslipidemia
Hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance
Congestive heart failure
Angina pectoris
Peripheral Vascular disease
Possible amputations
Venous statsis of lower extremities
Varicose Veins
Deep Venous Thrombosis
PE
Cholecystitis
Cholelithiasis
Osteoarthritis
Gout
Fatty liver disease
Sleep apnea and other respiratory problems
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Fertility complications
Pregnancy complications
Psychological disorders
Uric acid nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
Stress urinary incontinence
Cancer of the kidney, endometrium, breast, colon and rectum, esophagus, prostate and gall bladder
Death

I went into this not looking at the 2%-10% risk of all the surgical complications, but as 50/50. It was either going to be me, or not me. Thank goodness that coin flipped in my favor and the only "bump" I had was I needed my gall bladder out. I have had some of the things on your list and I don't consider them "complications" such as eating something and it gets stuck for an hour or two. That is part of the design and 2 hours of discomfort is worth 16 extra years with my kids.

There are many who have had a more rocky path and I do feel for them and I thank god every day it isn't me....yet. I am still at risk for a bowel obstruction, but I had pelvic surgery prior to this....that put me at risk for it as well.
We all need to make this decision based on our own situations, value system, and lifestyle. We need to do it with our eyes wide open as to the complications of surgery as well as the complications of not having it.

LQQkn · 09-03-2007, 09:58 AM

Dyann,

Thank you for posting this. I couldn't have said it better. I agree obesity kills.. for me obese mean't neck and back pain from over size breasts, high cholesterol, blood sugar out of control, knee pain, lack of energy. My reason for doing GBS was numerous doctors scaring me that I was going to have a heart attack or stroke if I didn't lose weight was this all problematic yes...and if I would have committed the time. I know it would have taken years to lose weight, had given up too. I probably took 10-15 yrs off my life by doing this surgery. Now that makes no sense when you think about that one, why would you want to take years off your life, it's the other way around isn't it? And the other problem is nobody comes forward and speaks up unless they are really sick. I read just the other day this is no lie I have it in my email box right now. A lady had GBS and has had complications. Now the hidious part of it all is she got excited that she was approved for permanent disability because she can't freakin work or function anymore. And she was EXCITED that she got disability! I understand the excitement however it's about relief you will have a "little" money coming in despite your disability now. I have no idea what is in store for me after reversal. I'm praying it will all be good, but seriously I would give anything to have NEVER had this experience in the first place. Now I live life understanding that everything happens for a reason. Perhaps I'm here to help others who are suffering and need help with this problem.. that most will LIVE with and suffer in silence because the surgery was the easy way out. Stop living in shame people. It's not shameful to be having side affects from the surgery. You didn't eat wrong to mess it up either. So many times I was accused of doing something I wasn't suppose to causing my pain. I didn't do anything but GBS to cause the pain. So I would gladly take my prior condition over my present condition any day, but I know life doesn't work like that. Incidentally I noted my prior complications from your list. I'd still take my priors over my present any day. Janie

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dyann

I am not in disagreement with what you said about seriously thinking about all of these possible complications post op. They need to be thought through with a great deal of serious comtemplation.

But here is the flipside. NOT having the surgery has is own risks as well and why do you feel those are any less serious or expensive? Below is a list of complications of obesity that many of us already had, and this surgery is a way to improve them or cure them. Granted sometimes we are trading one disease (lets say diabetes) for malabsorption of vitamins. Being a doctor, I would take the vitamin malabsorption ANY DAY over anything on this list.

It is a question of knowing your evils and what you are up against. One is an active decision (to pursue surgery) so you have more control of putting yourself in harms way. Which is why you need to think seriously about it as knowing your evils doesn't protect you from them.

I knew what I would face if I didn't lose the weight and some of the immediate risks, which I am well aware of, were worth the risk for ME.

Type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes
Cardiovascular disease
Stroke
Hypertension
hypothyroidism
Dyslipidemia
Hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance
Congestive heart failure
Angina pectoris
Peripheral Vascular disease
Possible amputations
Venous statsis of lower extremities
Varicose Veins
Deep Venous Thrombosis
PE
Cholecystitis
Cholelithiasis
Osteoarthritis
Gout
Fatty liver disease
Sleep apnea and other respiratory problems
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Fertility complications
Pregnancy complications
Psychological disorders
Uric acid nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
Stress urinary incontinence
Cancer of the kidney, endometrium, breast, colon and rectum, esophagus, prostate and gall bladder
Death

I went into this not looking at the 2%-10% risk of all the surgical complications, but as 50/50. It was either going to be me, or not me. Thank goodness that coin flipped in my favor and the only "bump" I had was I needed my gall bladder out. I have had some of the things on your list and I don't consider them "complications" such as eating something and it gets stuck for an hour or two. That is part of the design and 2 hours of discomfort is worth 16 extra years with my kids.

There are many who have had a more rocky path and I do feel for them and I thank god every day it isn't me....yet. I am still at risk for a bowel obstruction, but I had pelvic surgery prior to this....that put me at risk for it as well.
We all need to make this decision based on our own situations, value system, and lifestyle. We need to do it with our eyes wide open as to the complications of surgery as well as the complications of not having it.

Squishy · 09-03-2007, 12:29 PM

Thanks to Janie for posting the risks of WLS. I also really appreciated Dyann's information about the risks of obesity. Jane and I knew there were risks related to the surgery, but we weighed them against what we believed to be the certainties of obesity. When I look at the list of possible side-effects I can't help but wonder how much greater the possibility of these conditions is following surgery, compared to what they would be without the surgery. I am not saying that they are unrelated, but correlation does not necessarily equal causation.

The fact is that most of us have abused our bodies for many years, which increases our chances of many of these conditions. It is probably hard to say if the people who reported these complications would have gotten them regardless of whether they have had the surgery.

Now here is where you have to trust me... I am not questioning you or downplaying your complications. My heart breaks for those of you who have to fight these battles. There is always a chance that I could have the same problems one day.

Please understand that I find the information you provided fascinating and just want to explore it here as though we were having an open conversation. (This forum is my support group, which means that this is where I feel safe to say anything and learn where I am right or wrong. It gives me a place where I can unintentionally say something ignorant or even stupid, and be educated rather than chastised. OK... this ends the Squishy disclaimer.

)

Dehydration I have found that I really have to force myself to drink constantly. I definitely was dehydrated at first.

Chronic Vomiting and Nausea, Ruptured Esophagus from vomiting, Thankfully I have not had this. I wonder if there is any research that would indicate which foods are most likely to cause this? I have also heard that this can happen when the hole from the pouch to the intestine is too small. I heard that they can do a balloon catheterization to stretch it if that is the cause. I am really grateful that I don't have to deal with this.

Stroke, Silent Stroke, Heart Attack I know I was at high risk of this before the surgery. Both my parents had strokes and my mom had a pacemaker. I have to believe that my risk is lower for stroke or heart attack without the additional weight and with the better eating habits that I have to follow as a result of the surgery.

Arrhythmia I don't what causes this (with out without the surgery)

Kidney stones, Kidney Failure I imagine that the risk of this following surgery increases if you have the dehydration problem. If you can avoid the dehydration, I would be surprised if the risk was any greater. Maybe there is something else, but I just don't know what it would be.

Liver Failure, Anemia, Deficiencies (B-12,potassium, iron,B-1, B-6, etc.) Weakness and Fatigue from Malnutrition These all seem related. They cautioned us about these before the surgery and spent a lot of time talking about the need to supplement these following the procedure.

Malnutrition, Malabsorbtion of supplements (calcium, minerals, nutrients from food) The bypass intentionally creates malabsorbtion and malnutrition, so I guess I knew this was going to happen (not probably, but definitely). More of a choice than a side-effect. I wonder if there is some point increase our supplements because I'm sure that everyone absorbs things differently.

Blurred Vision I don't know what about the surgery would cause this. I know that diabetes can cause vision problems, so had I not had the WLS, I probably would have ended up diabetic (Jane already was) so my chances of vision problems were probably as high before as they are now. Maybe?

Muscle and Bone Pain I definitely had muscle and bone pain due to the excess weight, so the risk of this one may be no greater than it would have been without the surgery.

Loss of Teeth, Bleeding Gums,Rotting Teeth Due to Vomiting Requiring Root Canals This one I really don't know about. I think the dehydration problem can cause some gum problems too.

Hypoglycemia This was definitely a very high risk with the excess weight. It seems that the surgery probably reduced the risk of this.

Headaches I am not sure why the risk of this would go up. Just don't know.

Blackouts/Seizures This would be terrifying! Any idea why the surgery could cause this?

Lactose Intolerant This one the warned us about, so I would not consider this so much a complication, rather, I would say this one was a choice that Jane and I made.

Injury to Spleen during surgery This one, along with many other accidents during surgery could result from any surgery, so it seems to fall into a little different category.

Coma, Paralysis/Blindness after coma I'm not sure if this would be the result of an accident during surgery. If so, it probably goes in the same category as the previous one. Can the outcome of a successful surgery still result in this?

Osteoporosis We were definitely warned that we would need to supplement calcium following the surgery. If we follow the requirements for supplementing, is our risk any higher than it would have been without the
surgery?

Burst Pouch That sounds like it could be pretty bad. Obviously this risk would not exist without the surgery. I wonder what the percentages are for this complication.

Lupus, Auto-Immune Disease I don't know anything about these. How does the surgery lead to these?

Looped Intestines I can see where this could happen if things went wrong in the surgery. Again, I wonder how common this is. Any idea the percentage of patients who experience this?

Misfired Stapler during surgery This would definitely fall into the category of surgical complication/mishap.

Ulcers Not sure how WLS would cause this. I thought I read that they were caused by a virus.

Pneumonia/Lung Problems I guess I would consider this a possible complication of any surgery. Probably no greater with WLS than any other surgery in which you are put out.

Arthritis I definitely had this before the surgery and it was aggravated by my weight. I don't see how WLS could make this worse or increase our risk. Any ideas?

Overall Pain I had a lot of pain before, and a lot less now. I suppose that malnutrition could cause pain. Scar tissue, etc. could also. All I can say is that for me, I have a lot less pain now.

Metabolic Bone Disease Not sure what this is.

Food Blocking Stoma Causing Severe Pain, Stoma Needing Stretched Repeatedly This seems like one of the worst complications I have heard about. It sounds like it might be the cause of a lot of the vomiting mentioned above.

Neuropathy I know that this is commom with diabetes, which is much more common with the excess weight than without it, so it seems that the risk of this would actually go down following WLS.

Beri Beri This would fall into the malnutrition category. This is caused by a lack of thiamine. From what I can find, it is a very rare side-effect, and can
be treated with supplemental thiamine.

Put on Feeding Tubes/PICC Lines I think this is another surgical complication.

Fibromyalgia This one seems hard to pin down. From what I have read, it can be genetic or even caused by depression.

Fistulas My brother had a fistula, but it was unrelated to WLS. I am not sure how WLS would cause this. Not saying it can't... I just don't know.

Atrophy of Muscles, Hair Loss I believe that this is mostly due to a protein deficiency. Making sure that you are getting enough protein may prevent this.

Hernias This is a risk following any surgery in which the abdomen is opened.

Blood Clots, Leaks These would go into the surgical complication category. I'm sure this risk is the same for any major surgery.

Peritonitis Would this go into the surgical complication category?

Heart Burn/Gerd/Acid Reflux I had these before the surgery and they have gone away now. I would think that the risk is higher for these before WLS. Just about everyone I know who is overweight has heart burn and/or acid reflux.

Bowel Obstructions I suppose that anytime they mess around with your intestines, this risk goes up. I wonder what percent of WLS patients have this complication compared to the general public.

Gallstones and Gallbladder Removal I'm told that gallstones are a common result of rapid weight loss. I have lost a lot or weight several times and had my gallbladder removed before my WLS.

Severe Depression, Anxiety I would be willing to bet that there are more overweight people who are depressed and anxious than there are people who have had successful WLS. A WLS that results in major complications could definitely lead to depression, though. Looking at the rate at which antidepressants are prescribed these days, I doubt that the chances of WLS patients developing depression is much if any greater than the general public. It would be interesting to see statistics.

Loss of Memory, Poor Concentration I don't remember what I was going to write about this one. LOL! But seriously... I have had issues with this for a while prior to surgery, but I definitely went through a period following surgery where this seemed to worsen. I think part of it is the anesthesia, part nutrition, and part is just because it is such a major life-change that I had a hard time thinking about anything else.

Constipation Maybe ties back to dehydration???

Opening Of Outer Incision-Needing Packing Until Healed From The Inside Out I would call this one a surgical complication. Similar risk to any other major surgery?

Insomnia/Sleep Disorders I'm not sure why WLS would cause this. I had some of this before the surgery. Seems a little better after. Maybe nutrition problems could cause this?

Unforced Anorexia and Bulimia Is this an extreme version of malnutrition and vomiting covered earlier?

Gas Yeah, I think we all have experienced this. Luckily there are products like the new Gas-X strips and Devrom to help with this.

Vertigo I'm not sure why WLS would cause this and how much greater the risk is than it would be for the general public.

Many End Up Becoming Invalids I might question the article's claim that "many" end up invalids. As a percentage of all WLS patients, I would guess that this is really small. Don't get me wrong, even one would be tragic, but I think that many of us with serious weight problems were facing the risk of becoming invalids before WLS. Actually, the risk is probably much higher with the excess weight, especially for the morbidly obese with comorbidities

and then there is death I honestly believe that I have extended my life as a result of WLS. An early death was a certainty for those of us who were morbidly obese. Of course, there is always the risk of death during a major surgery that must be considered.

So, again... I am not discounting anyone's complications. I know there are risks and that those who have complications are going through very difficult times. I just wanted to explore this topic a little further and offer my opinion on the article that you found.

For those considering WLS... You absolutely have to consider all of the possible outcomes, (both good and bad), of having the surgery and not having the surgery. There are people on this forum for whom the complications are a daily reality. There are also people on this forum whose lives are infinitely improved. WLS is not the easy way out. It is the biggest commitment to your health you will probably ever make. It is not a decision to be taken lightly.

That said, I still believe that it is the best decision I have ever made for my health. I hope I always feel that way. Time will tell.

-Mike-

LQQkn · 09-03-2007, 03:11 PM

Squishy to be honest, I've read all your comments below, and all the ones you aren't sure about.. how they are related.. they are most of them will be from lack of nutrition, malnutrition, malabsorption, vitamin deficiencies. Yes we are told about malabsorption, but what happens if you can't absorb what you need to, and like me or Paige have to take double, triple, and sometimes more of the same meds, and vitamins to get the same effect as most. And this is my case in point... most people go into this without any of this information. I would imagine if the surgery were a success it would not cause coma, blindness, or death.. to answer your obvious question. Blurred vision I have is caused by luetin deficiency, just another in the line of problems. Muscle pain, I have severe muscle and bone pain since surgery.. worse so than before. Teeth loss can come from severe reflux, and acid caused from chronic vomiting. Ulcers are caused by gastritis, and acid reflux. Hence the reason I guess they put everyone on PPI's after surgery. I guess I wasn't bargaining for the inferno I'm encountering! Feeding tubes and picc lines, are the result of too much weight loss, and nutritional deficiencies. It is not a surgical complication initially, but one that comes as a result of not being able to eat, and take in your nutrition etc, and become too thin. TPN is what most know it to be.. Constipation can be caused by dehydration, but for me it's a result of the surgery. Anyone wants an explanation just ask. Vertigo for me is caused by vitamin deficiencies, and lack of nutrition. And the list goes on... Thanks for taking the time to explore them. Janie

Dehydration I have found that I really have to force myself to drink constantly. I definitely was dehydrated at first.

Chronic Vomiting and Nausea, Ruptured Esophagus from vomiting, Thankfully I have not had this. I wonder if there is any research that would indicate which foods are most likely to cause this? I have also heard that this can happen when the hole from the pouch to the intestine is too small. I heard that they can do a balloon catheterization to stretch it if that is the cause. I am really grateful that I don't have to deal with this.

Stroke, Silent Stroke, Heart Attack I know I was at high risk of this before the surgery. Both my parents had strokes and my mom had a pacemaker. I have to believe that my risk is lower for stroke or heart attack without the additional weight and with the better eating habits that I have to follow as a result of the surgery.

Arrhythmia I don't what causes this (with out without the surgery)

Kidney stones, Kidney Failure I imagine that the risk of this following surgery increases if you have the dehydration problem. If you can avoid the dehydration, I would be surprised if the risk was any greater. Maybe there is something else, but I just don't know what it would be.

Liver Failure, Anemia, Deficiencies (B-12,potassium, iron,B-1, B-6, etc.) Weakness and Fatigue from Malnutrition These all seem related. They cautioned us about these before the surgery and spent a lot of time talking about the need to supplement these following the procedure.

Malnutrition, Malabsorbtion of supplements (calcium, minerals, nutrients from food) The bypass intentionally creates malabsorbtion and malnutrition, so I guess I knew this was going to happen (not probably, but definitely). More of a choice than a side-effect. I wonder if there is some point increase our supplements because I'm sure that everyone absorbs things differently.

Blurred Vision I don't know what about the surgery would cause this. I know that diabetes can cause vision problems, so had I not had the WLS, I probably would have ended up diabetic (Jane already was) so my chances of vision problems were probably as high before as they are now. Maybe?

Muscle and Bone Pain I definitely had muscle and bone pain due to the excess weight, so the risk of this one may be no greater than it would have been without the surgery.

Loss of Teeth, Bleeding Gums,Rotting Teeth Due to Vomiting Requiring Root Canals This one I really don't know about. I think the dehydration problem can cause some gum problems too.

Hypoglycemia This was definitely a very high risk with the excess weight. It seems that the surgery probably reduced the risk of this.

Headaches I am not sure why the risk of this would go up. Just don't know.

Blackouts/Seizures This would be terrifying! Any idea why the surgery could cause this?

Lactose Intolerant This one the warned us about, so I would not consider this so much a complication, rather, I would say this one was a choice that Jane and I made.

Injury to Spleen during surgery This one, along with many other accidents during surgery could result from any surgery, so it seems to fall into a little different category.

Coma, Paralysis/Blindness after coma I'm not sure if this would be the result of an accident during surgery. If so, it probably goes in the same category as the previous one. Can the outcome of a successful surgery still result in this?

Osteoporosis We were definitely warned that we would need to supplement calcium following the surgery. If we follow the requirements for supplementing, is our risk any higher than it would have been without the
surgery?

Burst Pouch That sounds like it could be pretty bad. Obviously this risk would not exist without the surgery. I wonder what the percentages are for this complication.

Lupus, Auto-Immune Disease I don't know anything about these. How does the surgery lead to these?

Looped Intestines I can see where this could happen if things went wrong in the surgery. Again, I wonder how common this is. Any idea the percentage of patients who experience this?

Misfired Stapler during surgery This would definitely fall into the category of surgical complication/mishap.

Ulcers Not sure how WLS would cause this. I thought I read that they were caused by a virus.

Pneumonia/Lung Problems I guess I would consider this a possible complication of any surgery. Probably no greater with WLS than any other surgery in which you are put out.

Arthritis I definitely had this before the surgery and it was aggravated by my weight. I don't see how WLS could make this worse or increase our risk. Any ideas?

Overall Pain I had a lot of pain before, and a lot less now. I suppose that malnutrition could cause pain. Scar tissue, etc. could also. All I can say is that for me, I have a lot less pain now.

Metabolic Bone Disease Not sure what this is.

Food Blocking Stoma Causing Severe Pain, Stoma Needing Stretched Repeatedly This seems like one of the worst complications I have heard about. It sounds like it might be the cause of a lot of the vomiting mentioned above.

Neuropathy I know that this is commom with diabetes, which is much more common with the excess weight than without it, so it seems that the risk of this would actually go down following WLS.

Beri Beri This would fall into the malnutrition category. This is caused by a lack of thiamine. From what I can find, it is a very rare side-effect, and can
be treated with supplemental thiamine.

Put on Feeding Tubes/PICC Lines I think this is another surgical complication.

Fibromyalgia This one seems hard to pin down. From what I have read, it can be genetic or even caused by depression.

Fistulas My brother had a fistula, but it was unrelated to WLS. I am not sure how WLS would cause this. Not saying it can't... I just don't know.

Atrophy of Muscles, Hair Loss I believe that this is mostly due to a protein deficiency. Making sure that you are getting enough protein may prevent this.

Hernias This is a risk following any surgery in which the abdomen is opened.

Blood Clots, Leaks These would go into the surgical complication category. I'm sure this risk is the same for any major surgery.

Peritonitis Would this go into the surgical complication category?

Heart Burn/Gerd/Acid Reflux I had these before the surgery and they have gone away now. I would think that the risk is higher for these before WLS. Just about everyone I know who is overweight has heart burn and/or acid reflux.

Bowel Obstructions I suppose that anytime they mess around with your intestines, this risk goes up. I wonder what percent of WLS patients have this complication compared to the general public.

Gallstones and Gallbladder Removal I'm told that gallstones are a common result of rapid weight loss. I have lost a lot or weight several times and had my gallbladder removed before my WLS.

Severe Depression, Anxiety I would be willing to bet that there are more overweight people who are depressed and anxious than there are people who have had successful WLS. A WLS that results in major complications could definitely lead to depression, though. Looking at the rate at which antidepressants are prescribed these days, I doubt that the chances of WLS patients developing depression is much if any greater than the general public. It would be interesting to see statistics.

Loss of Memory, Poor Concentration I don't remember what I was going to write about this one. LOL! But seriously... I have had issues with this for a while prior to surgery, but I definitely went through a period following surgery where this seemed to worsen. I think part of it is the anesthesia, part nutrition, and part is just because it is such a major life-change that I had a hard time thinking about anything else.

Constipation Maybe ties back to dehydration???

Opening Of Outer Incision-Needing Packing Until Healed From The Inside Out I would call this one a surgical complication. Similar risk to any other major surgery?

Insomnia/Sleep Disorders I'm not sure why WLS would cause this. I had some of this before the surgery. Seems a little better after. Maybe nutrition problems could cause this?

Unforced Anorexia and Bulimia Is this an extreme version of malnutrition and vomiting covered earlier?

Gas Yeah, I think we all have experienced this. Luckily there are products like the new Gas-X strips and Devrom to help with this.

Vertigo I'm not sure why WLS would cause this and how much greater the risk is than it would be for the general public.

Many End Up Becoming Invalids I might question the article's claim that "many" end up invalids. As a percentage of all WLS patients, I would guess that this is really small. Don't get me wrong, even one would be tragic, but I think that many of us with serious weight problems were facing the risk of becoming invalids before WLS. Actually, the risk is probably much higher with the excess weight, especially for the morbidly obese with comorbidities

and then there is death I honestly believe that I have extended my life as a result of WLS. An early death was a certainty for those of us who were morbidly obese. Of course, there is always the risk of death during a major surgery that must be considered.

So, again... I am not discounting anyone's complications. I know there are risks and that those who have complications are going through very difficult times. I just wanted to explore this topic a little further and offer my opinion on the article that you found.

For those considering WLS... You absolutely have to consider all of the possible outcomes, (both good and bad), of having the surgery and not having the surgery. There are people on this forum for whom the complications are a daily reality. There are also people on this forum whose lives are infinitely improved. WLS is not the easy way out. It is the biggest commitment to your health you will probably ever make. It is not a decision to be taken lightly.

That said, I still believe that it is the best decision I have ever made for my health. I hope I always feel that way. Time will tell.

-Mike-[/quote]

Debz · 09-03-2007, 03:53 PM

As some of you know, I'm battling my own buyer's remorse at the moment. I've mentioned the hematoma I have from surgery and how painful it is. I've never been is such sustained pain for so long before in my life, and I cannot explain to you how difficult it is to live like this and how depressing it is to not know how long this is going to last.

In addition to this complication, I've been at a weight loss standstill for 11 days now. It's kind of like getting what you really wanted for Christmas, and then having it break 10 minutes into playing with it. It's rather disconcerting.

All of that being said...here's how it all shakes down for me. My family history is full of obesity, diabetes, amputations due to diabetes, heart disease....it's a cornucopia of obesity related co-morbidities. I myself have diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, degenerative disc disease etc,etc,etc....

My willingness to have surgery indicates my admission to myself that my weight was out of control and that I felt unable to control it on my own. So, did I want to sit around and wait for the shit storm of major complications to hit? I wasn't able to lose weight on my own, and I felt like I was sitting on the tracks waiting for the 12:45 train to come blazing through, pulverizing me on the way by.

I made the decision to be proactive and try to do something very drastic to change my fate. The question is, however, did I avoid the 12:45 and set myself up for the 1:15? I find the idea of someone having absolutely no complication at all almost ludicrous...how can you surgically re-route your digestive system without any negative sequalae? ButI knew that going in...

So, to tie it all up....GBS is serious buisness. It has serious side effects and potentially life threatening complications. It's a gamble either way and a VERY personal decision....and one that can't be taken back. Even with a reversal, you can't change the experience that lead up to the reversal.

I did tons of research before my surgery and felt very well informed. To be honest...in all the research I did, I never read a word about a hematoma like I have...but to continue being honest....it wouldn't have changed my mind. Because I was determined to do this to myself. And all I can say is that the promise of a shining new me blinded me to some of the potential outcomes.
It was easy to gloss them over and charge forth.

So....do I think I made a mistake? Dunno yet. I'm hoping this whole hematoma thing resolves soon...it'll be easier to decide. Would I do it again? Ask me in a week, a month, a year. Today, I'm not sure.

My whole point? (I realize I've been wordy and that my point may have been lost here). Newbies....THINK! CONSIDER! MULL! RESEARCH! And don't delude yourself into thinking this is a cake walk. Cuz it ain't.

Squishy · 09-03-2007, 05:02 PM

Thanks for the additional info. I see your point about not being able to absorb enough even with the supplements. It sounds like they have upped your supplements to try to overcome your body's inability to get enough nutrition, but it isn't working. I cannot even imagine what that must be like.

My questions about coma, blindness, and death were sincere. I did not know if there was some delayed effect that could result in those conditions or if these were simply risks associated with being opened up.

(I'm not sure what a PPI is, but as far as I know, I am not on that.)

I am truly sorry that your pain is worse than before surgery. As you said, it all seems to tie back to uncontrollable undernourishment. I wonder if there is some other way to get the nourishment you need. If you cannot break down and absorb the pills, is there a faster-absorbing liquid version of the things you need? They have nicotine patches now, why not patches for other nutrients? I wonder if there is any research being done on this. There must be a bariatric association of some kind. It seems to me that they should be doing two things...

1. Working to identify some criteria that would help predict who would be likely to encounter the complications that you have.

2. Working to identify improved methods for insuring that the post-WLS body can absorb the needed nutrients.

Maybe we could leverage the power of this forum to request information (or action) on those issues. Does anyone know if there is an association?

Thanks for your response and clarification.
-Mike-

Dyann · 09-03-2007, 05:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Squishy

1. Working to identify some criteria that would help predict who would be likely to encounter the complications that you have.

Maybe we could leverage the power of this forum to request information (or action) on those issues. Does anyone know if there is an association?

Thanks for your response and clarification.
-Mike-

Mike,

There are well defined patient factors that make a patient higher risk. These include, but are not limited to BMI >50, Age >60, Central obesity, Male, Pulmonary disease. A more distal bypass is done on the super morbidly obese. It helps them lose more weight, but also increases the malabsorption. There are surgeon factors as well. It has been well documented that a surgeon who has INDEPENDENTLY (not including residency with a professor holding their hand) completed more than 200 cases laparoscopically has a significantly lower complication rate. If they are at less than 50 cases, they are still in a learning curve and the risks are even higher.

The ABA has been certifying centers of excellence based on volumes of cases, complication rates and support etc. For patients who don't know how to find out anything about MD's, that is one thing that is easy to find out. Make sure their MD is the one on the certificate. Each surgeon should know exactly their leak rate, stricture rate, DVT, PE, and death rate. They should be worn like a badge of honor. Some insurance companies will only cover the procedure if it is done at a center of excellence as their complications are fewer and cost them less money.

As there are more of us, we can become more vocal.

Just as a casual observer, and I have no data to support this, I feel the some of the ones who have problems with losing too much and severe malabsorption are the ones who barely met criteria. Maybe those who have 80-90 pounds to lose should not have this procedure and should have a lap band, even if you have a co morbidity?? I don't know the answer and unfortunately we are the test patients and blazing the trail for those who come after us.