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About this blog

I want to use this blog as a place to vent, share, and journal everything. It may not all be related to my weight loss so just be prepared for ramblings.

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Lapband Information -Just to bookmark this information

http://www.lapband.com/en/learn_about_lapband/safety_informa tion/ Patients can experience complications after surgery. Most complications are not serious but some may require hospitalization and/or re-operation. In the United States clinical study, with 3-year follow-up reported, 88% of the 299 patients had one or more adverse events, ranging from mild, moderate, to severe. Nausea and vomiting (51%), gastroesophageal reflux (regurgitation) (34%), band slippage/pouch dilatation (24%) and stoma obstruction (stomach-band outlet blockage) (14%) were the most common post-operative complications. In the study, 25% of the patients had their band systems removed, two-thirds of which were following adverse events. Esophageal dilatation or dysmotility (poor esophageal function) occurred in 11% of patients, the long-term effects of which are currently unknown. Constipation, diarrhea and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) occurred in 9% of the patients. In 9% of the patients, a second surgery was needed to fix a problem with the band or initial surgery. In 9% of the patients, there was an additional procedure to fix a leaking or twisted access port. The access port design has been improved. Four out of 299 patients (1.3%) had their bands erode into their stomachs. These bands needed to be removed in a second operation. Surgical techniques have evolved to reduce slippage. Surgeons with more laparoscopic experience and more experience with these procedures report fewer complications. Adverse events that were considered to be non-serious, and which occurred in less than 1% of the patients, included: esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), gastritis (inflammation of the stomach), hiatal hernia (some stomach above the diaphragm), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), abdominal pain, hernia, incisional hernia, infection, redundant skin, dehydration, diarrhea (frequent semi-solid bowel movements), abnormal stools, constipation, flatulence (gas), dyspepsia (upset stomach), eructation (belching), cardiospasm (an obstruction of passage of food through the bottom of the esophagus), hematemsis (vomiting of blood), asthenia (fatigue), fever, chest pain, incision pain, contact dermatitis (rash), abnormal healing, edema (swelling), paresthesia (abnormal sensation of burning, prickly, or tingling), dysmenorrhea (difficult periods), hypochromic anemia (low oxygen carrying part of blood), band system leak, cholecystitis (gall stones), esophageal ulcer (sore), port displacement, port site pain, spleen injury, and wound infection. Be sure to ask your surgeon about these possible complications and any of these medical terms that you dont understand. Back to Top What are the specific risks and possible complications?   Talk to your doctor about all of the following risks and complications:   Ulceration Gastritis (irritated stomach tissue) Gastroesophageal reflux (regurgitation) Heartburn Gas bloat Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) Dehydration Constipation Weight regain Death Laparoscopic surgery has its own set of possible problems. They include:   Spleen or liver damage (sometimes requiring spleen removal) Damage to major blood vessels Lung problems Thrombosis (blood clots) Rupture of the wound Perforation of the stomach or esophagus during surgery Laparoscopic surgery is not always possible. The surgeon may need to switch to an "open" method due to some of the reasons mentioned here. This happened in about 5% of the cases in the U.S. Clinical Study. There are also problems that can occur that are directly related to the LAP-BAND� System:   The band can spontaneously deflate because of leakage. That leakage can come from the band, the reservoir, or the tubing that connects them. The band can slip There can be stomach slippage The stomach pouch can enlarge The stoma (stomach outlet) can be blocked The band can erode into the stomach Obstruction of the stomach can be caused by:   Food Swelling Improper placement of the band The band being over-inflated Band or stomach slippage Stomach pouch twisting Stomach pouch enlargement There have been some reports that the esophagus has stretched or dilated in some patients. This could be caused by:   Improper placement of the band The band being tightened too much Stoma obstruction Binge eating Excessive vomiting Patients with a weaker esophagus may be more likely to have this problem. A weaker esophagus is one that is not good at pushing food through to your stomach. Tell your surgeon if you have difficulty swallowing. Then your surgeon can evaluate this. Weight loss with the LAP-BAND� System is typically slower and more gradual than with some other weight loss surgeries. Tightening the band too fast or too much to try to speed up weight loss should be avoided. The stomach pouch and/or esophagus can become enlarged as a result. You need to learn how to use your band as a tool that can help you reduce the amount you eat. Infection is possible. Also, the band can erode into the stomach. This can happen right after surgery or years later, although this rarely happens. Complications can cause reduced weight loss. They can also cause weight gain. Other complications can result that require more surgery to remove, reposition, or replace the band. Some patients have more nausea and vomiting than others. You should see your physician at once if vomiting persists. Rapid weight loss may lead to symptoms of:   Malnutrition Anemia Related complications It is possible you may not lose much weight or any weight at all. You could also have complications related to obesity. If any complications occur, you may need to stay in the hospital longer. You may also need to return to the hospital later. A number of less serious complications can also occur. These may have little effect on how long it takes you to recover from surgery. If you have existing problems, such as diabetes, a large hiatal hernia (part of the stomach in the chest cavity), Barretts esophagus (severe, chronic inflammation of the lower esophagus), or emotional or psychological problems, you may have more complications. Your surgeon will consider how bad your symptoms are, and if you are a good candidate for the LAP-BAND� System surgery. You also have more risk of complications if you've had a surgery before in the same area. If the procedure is not done laparoscopically by an experienced surgeon, you may have more risk of complications. Anti-inflammatory drugs that may irritate the stomach, such as aspirin and NSAIDs, should be used with caution. Some people need folate and vitamin B12 supplements to maintain normal homocycteine levels. Elevated homocycteine levels can increase risks to your heart and the risk of spinal birth defects. You can develop gallstones after a rapid weight loss. This can make it necessary to remove your gallbladder. There have been no reports of autoimmune disease with the use of the LAP-BAND� System. Autoimmune diseases and connective tissue disorders, though, have been reported after long-term implantation of other silicone devices. These problems can include systemic lupus erythematosus and scleroderma. At this time, there is no conclusive clinical evidence that supports a relationship between connective-tissue disorders and silicone implants. Long-term studies to further evaluate this possibility are still being done. You should know, though, that if autoimmune symptoms develop after the band is in place, you may need treatment. The band may also need to be removed. Talk with your surgeon about this possibility. Also, if you have symptoms of autoimmune disease now, the LAP-BAND� System may not be right for you. Back to Top Removing the LAP-BAND� System   If the LAP-BAND� System has been placed laparoscopically, it may be possible to remove it the same way. This is an advantage of the LAP-BAND� System. However, an "open" procedure may be necessary to remove a band. In the U.S. Clinical Study, 60% of the bands that were removed were done laparoscopically. Surgeons report that after the band is removed, the stomach returns to essentially a normal state. At this time, there are no known reasons to suggest that the band should be replaced or removed at some point unless a complication occurs or you do not lose weight. It is difficult, though, to say whether the band will stay in place for the rest of your life. It may need to be removed or replaced at some point. Removing the device requires a surgical procedure. That procedure will have all the related risks and possible complications that come with surgery. The risk of some complications, such as erosions and infection, increase with any added procedure.   LapSf Study that I swiped from MacMadame's profile LapSF Educational presentation to FACS - includes some 2 year results LapSF Two Year Study LapSF Five Year Study - abstract only LapSF Five Year Study - presentation (requires Windows to play) Literature review on the sleeve - requires $ to get the full text unfortunately Sleeve best for over 50 crowd Video of a sleeve with lots of education discussion Video of a sleeve that is more about the operation Ghrelin levels after RnY and sleeve Ghrelin levels after band and sleeve Diabetes resolution in RnY vs. Sleeve Comparison of band to sleeve - literature review
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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Squadron Christmas Party

Last night was our annual squadron Christmas party, and I had a great time.   We enjoyed good laughs, good food, and I enjoyed not 1, but 2 glasses of Kendall Jackson Reisling. I had half before dinner, then ate about 3 bites of prime rib, 3 bites of this stuffed chicken (the chicken was too dry), I had about 4oz of mashed potatoes with gravy, and 3 broccoli florets. I felt fabulous after eating, and no ill effects from the wine. I sipped coffee at the meal, and then finished off the first glass of wine. Not even a buzz feeling, so around 9:30 I decided to have another glass. I didn't ever have any burning, or weird sensations. I felt relaxed, and enjoyed our evening out.   Many of the ladies complimented me on my dress, and I felt so great. One of the guys asked " are you K*****'s wife?" I replied " yes", he said " you look a lot different than you did last year." I giggled and said "yeah, that's what 100lbs gone will do for a girl." He said "well you look great, and I know you had a tough recovery with him gone, but you're a trooper." I felt really fabulous all night. Confident, and outgoing, I didn't feel like I had to hide behind John, or sit at the table all night. I went and mingled with a few of the other spouses, and some of the guys I've met.   Overall, we had a great time.
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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I'm FREE

I went in and had the drains and line removed from my arm. No more TPN, and no more cumbersome drains .   I am on clears for 2 weeks, and then I go back in to discuss transitioning into full liquids/mushies on July 9th. I can't believe how good it feels to not have all that crap attached to my body.   My main goal is to stay hydrated. Dr. M isn't going to release me for work for at least a month. He said he just wants me to take it really easy. I can't vacuum, sweep or mop, but I can fold and put away laundry. Luckily, I have an amazing neighbor, who volunteered to come over and help me out with the housework.   My younger brother, and best friend are heading out here on July 4th from Texas. They had this little vacation planned, and it worked out that they can bring Caysen home at the same time. 10 more days until they get here! ! !   Overall, it's been a great morning.
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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Keep rolling, rolling

I've lost 29lbs, and almost can't believe it. I'm 25% closer to my goal weight, and I actually feel pretty good today. I'm staying hydrated, and trying to keep distracted. I haven't been hungry at all, and that is such a refreshing feeling. I guess after so many years of eating large quantities, not eating, or even being hungry is quite odd. But, I welcome it.   I have errands to run tomorrow, and had planned on doing them earlier. Least to say, procrastination has won. I ended up staying up way too late watching TV, and slept in. But, tonight, I'm going to bed earlier and will get up and get things accomplished.   Caysen will be home in 4 days. It feels like an eternity since I've seen him when in reality it's only been 3 weeks. It's been the longest 3 weeks, and I'll be so happy to have him home with me.   I can't wait for July to get here. 3 months until the husband comes home, we're both so excited, and I'm really excited for him to see me for the first time.   Hope everyone else out there doing well. . .
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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Random Update

So, I had my follow up appointment today. Labs looked great, and the final drain has been removed. I talked to him about the nausea and acid reflux type stuff I have been dealing with this last week every time I ate. He prescribed Prilosec, and Zofran for the nausea since the Phenergan was making me so drowsy. I've taken a Zofran and started the Prilosec when I got home, and I feel fabulous. The last pocket that is in my pelvic cavity is shrinking, but the drain was draining anymore so he removed it. He said that the culture wasn't growing anything so my body should absorb the remaining fluid. The culture came back clear for any bacteria, he said something along the lines of "sterile fluid", so I am hoping for the best. He said if it comes back, they will have to get to transrectally. All my fingers and toes are crossed that it goes away. I'm pretty sure "transrectally" is not a pleasant procedure.   For the first time in 2 months, I almost feel normal. I'm hoping that this feeling continues. I've actually been able to eat one of those little packets of colby/cheddar cheese, and I didn't get sick.   John will be home in a couple of months, and he freaked out when I sent him a face picture. He said I didn't look like the same woman. I lost 7 pounds this last week, but I think it's because I couldn't eat hardly anything and everything I ate went right through me.   I'm getting nervous for his return. I look completely different, I've lost 55lbs total and it's going to be so different when he comes home. He's been working out like crazy and gained 25lbs. He sent me a picture, and may I just say, GOOD LORD, he's gotten so "bulky/buff", I don't know a better word for it. We're going to have a great time when he comes home, and it's going to be like falling in love all over again. We're both beyond ready for this deployment to be over. He's 100% homesick, and is really missing us.   Everything else is going well. Caysen starts school in a couple of weeks. I'm going to do a deep cleaning on the house once my energy returns. I'm ready to feel good enough to clean my house.   Hope everyone is doing well ! ! !
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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The scale

The batteries in my scale are DEAD, and I haven't weighed in 2 days. Of course, this scale can't use just normal batteries. They are those flat, round watch type batteries. I'm a little obsessed with the scale, and don't deny it. This is driving me crazy, as much as I dread going to WalMart, I guess a trip is in order so I can get my scale back up and running.   Deployment is almost over less than 21 days, and I'm getting antsy. I have a hair appointment on the 8th, and nails will follow the next week. Communication is pretty much gone at this point. I know the replacements should be there soon, and it's just so stressful. Projected return dates have changed a couple of times so I'm cautiously optimistic that he'll actually be home before the end of September. I just want it to be over.   Other than that, not a lot going on. I have a mandatory 5th grade parent meeting tonight that I'm not looking forward to attending. Caysen is loving school, and he's doing great.   Hope everyone is doing well.
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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Blogging in General

I've switched over to blogspot.com   It's not going to be focused completely on VSG, or my WL journey. It's life, and I believe I'm more than just a WLS patient.   If you care to follow me, feel free to do so and comment if you can.   Thanks ! ! !   http://unraveledapronstringsinmypinkstiletto.blogspot.com/
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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Zumba

kicked my hiney ! ! ! I found another military wife that wants to get in shape. She signed up at the Y last week and she talked me into going tonight.   Let me tell ya, Zumba is NOT for the weak. It kicked my butt, and I am definitely not coordinated enough to keep up. It was quite intimidating.   Tomorrow is strength training and maybe a Hip Hop dance class in the evening.
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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Sleeve research links, dietary guidelines etc

LapSF Two Year Study LapSF Five Year Study - abstract only LapSF Five Year Study - presentation (requires Windows to play) Literature review on the sleeve - requires $$ to get the full text unfortunately Sleeve best for over 50 crowd Video of a sleeve with lots of education discussion Video of a sleeve that is more about the operation Ghrelin levels after RnY and sleeve Ghrelin levels after band and sleeve Diabetes resolution in RnY vs. Sleeve Comparison of band to sleeve - literature review   http://www.iabsobesitysurgery.com/Media/Forms/SleeveDietGuide.pdf   http://www.cornellweightlosssurgery.org/pdf/dietary_guidelines_sleeve_gastrectomy.pdf   Some of this is outdated, but some of it is great information: http://www.sleeveguide.com/   http://www.ssat.com/cgi-bin/abstracts/08ddw/O4.cgi   http://www.hopkinsbayview.org/bin/c/a/nutrition_sleeve.pdf   Eglin surgeons use small bougies so this is just for informational purposes: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18098398?ordinalpos=4&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_DefaultReportPanel     http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/ASMBS/20937   http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2791490/vertical_sleeve_gastrectomy_pg2.html?cat=5     5 year post-op stats http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20094819?itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum&ordinalpos=1   http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20338286
Tiffykins

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BOUGIE stuffI Just to bookmark this for myself since this asks often

If you haven't seen this, I found this on OH, and think it'll give you an idea of honestly how minimal difference in a 32 and 40 really is.     Just a visual to offer more pictures of how minimal the difference is between the sizes your concerned about.   Here is a fabulous link for bougies. It physically lists every size of bougies, with the millimeter measurements. Scroll to pages 3 and 5 to see the table of reference for bougie sizes. http://www.medovations.com/pdf/Esoph...Dilatation.pdf
Tiffykins

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To Bookmark: My reasons for VSG over RNY for my revision

The VSG was my 2nd, and final WLS. I could have easily had RNY, but I fought to have VSG as my revision from the band. Some factors I considered in deciding on VSG. The pouch that RNY offers is similar to the pouch with the band. Least to say, a pouch sucks, I love having a normal tummy, just less capacity and still fully functioning.   1) No blind stomach left behind that can be difficult to scope yet can still get ulcers and cancer. 2) 2 years max on calorie/carb/sugar malabsorption, but a lifetime of vitamin/nutrient malabsorption 3) I had a pouch with the band, and it sucked. I'm pretty fond of my pyloric valve and the sleeve let me keep it. I love having a normal functioning stomach, just smaller in capacity. 4) Regain stats and #of RNY patients seeking revision truly scared the poop out of me 5) I have too many friends in real life that struggle with vitamin deficiencies post-RNY, and most of them either never got to goal, or have gained back a significant amount of their weight. 6) The long term complications with RNY were too numerous for my comfort level. 7) I researched gastrectomies that had been performed for stomach cancer and ulcer patients, and found comfort in the long term results and minimal complications of patients that had lost most or all of their stomachs had dealt with over several years. 8) I was a volume eater, and knew a restrictive only procedure would work for me. That was my thought process when I got the band, and I thought I could beat the odds on complications. Sadly, the band only lasted 8 months before I had to revise. 9) I did not want to have food or medication restrictions. I chose WLS to have a "normal" life, and I think it's normal to eat a couple of cookies. With RNY, I wasn't willing to go through the possibility of dumping if I wanted to have a couple of cookies, or a slice of cake on occasion.   I lost all my weight with the exception of 7lbs with the sleeve. It's been a fabulous journey, and I'm easily maintaining with zero issues.
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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YouTube videos

A member here, youknowit, let me know she had seen my before and some after pics of me in some youtube videos.   Least to say, I did not authorize this usage of my photos. I contacted the poster, and advised them that they were violating the TOS of youtube. I'm assuming they snagged my photos from this forum because my OH is completely private. So, I went in and made my photo album here available to only my friends.   I gave the poster 24 hours to reply. If I do not hear from them, I will report the privacy violation to Youtube.   If your album is public, go to your User CP, hit Privacy Options, and then make it available only to your friends.   I'm not completely upset by having my pictures out there. It's the principle that the poster did not ask for permission to use them.   I realize the internet is not private. I realize once it's out there, it's out there. That is NOT my concern so I don't need a lecture on posting pics on the internet. My point is that the pics were snagged, and used without any consideration or authorization. Even a common courtesy to say "hey I'm making some videos on youtube and would like to use your pics." would have been appreciated.   Also, the poster has a weight loss forum/community (not just for WLS patients) that he/she is trying to get people to join.   So, least to say, we'll see what happens.
Tiffykins

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It's just one of those days. . .

My phone rang this morning to let me know John's base had been bombed, and that communication was going to be down for several days. She told me to check Yahoo, and right there it was in black and white. My heart just sank, but she reassured me that if John would of been affected, I would of been contacted by now.   It's been a long day already, and think it's dragging on because I'm looking forward to tomorrow so much. I go back to the surgeon tomorrow in hopes of good news for the TPN bag to be decreased. I'm also ready for the jp drains to come out.   The pets are all doing okay. Hank (basset hound) is being needy, but I feel bad because he is used to the kiddo being home. Harley (cat) is being his old, cantankerous self, and Boxster (the turtle) is doing just fine.   On the weight loss front, I haven't lost anything in a couple of days. This stupid TPN is giving me over 1800 calories a day, the first nurses were mistaken when they told me close to 3000 calories. The dietician told me my body needed that many to recover. So, I'm even more hopeful that my surgeon decreases this stuff, and lets me start getting in some liquids. I know it'll be okay in the long run.   I warned y'all it would be rambling. I hope everyone has had a good weekend. . .
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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Tomorrow is going to be a good day

Tomorrow, I have 4 goals.   #1 NO LEAKS   #2 Get the TPN decreased   #3 Get jp drains out   #4 Start clear liquids   I'm excited for tomorrow with a little bit of nervousness. I'm ready for the next step in recovery. I've felt good and haven't had any problems this last week. I've made it through the longest 9 days of my life. I remember on Tuesday really feeling down, and I didn't feel like the 22nd was ever going to get here. I'm not looking forward to the ct scan because the last experience on that table was horrible, but it's a necessary evil.   I'll update once I get back home tomorrow afternoon. My mantra for tomorrow is "no leaks, no leaks, no leaks".
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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Today was amazing

I went in for my follow up today, and it went great.   3 out of 4 of my goals were achieved.   NO LEAKS ! ! ! YAY YAY   The TPN has been decreased by half.   I started clears.   I still have the drains, but he said that is a precaution because if the drain fluid changes colors/consistency, that could be a sign something is wrong. I go back Wednesday afternoon and if I don't have any fever issues, no abdominal pain, no vomiting, and the drains stay clear, the TPN will be discontinued and he'll pull the line out of my arm.   I was so relieved I cried. He said my new stomach looked good. I got home this afternoon and started sipping water with the Special K protein water packet and it's the best thing stuff in the world. I get a little burpy/gurgly when I drink, but he said that was normal since my stomach hasn't had to work in 3 weeks. It's been an amazing day. I went to Wal-Mart picked up some odds and ends, and least to say that wore me out.   Then, tonight John was able to call, and we actually were able to talk for about 30 minutes. It was so amazing to hear his voice. It's been a week since we were able to actually talk. Their Capt. told them to call their families to let us know they were all okay after yesterday's events over there. He said he was fine, and wasn't close to the bombs. He wouldn't tell me if he was close to them. He doesn't want me to go back to work, and I really don't want to either. After this experience, I don't want to miss my son's stuff anymore. We're fine on money, and he said he'd rather have me home and getting healthy, taking care of the home and Caysen than dealing with all the stress of the agency. I tried being a housewife/stay at home mom before, and I got bored, but I think this time it will be different. My perspective has changed, and I've decided, I'm not going to miss out on events with my child and husband anymore.   Overall, I had a spectacular day, and I hope tomorrow goes smoothly as well.
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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Whew I feel better

I was beginning to feel a bit blah, but the protein really helped tonight. I still haven't been hungry, and I'm trying my very best to get in as much liquid as I can. Right now, I'm working on my 3rd 16oz glass. I'm actually finding that plain water goes down best.   I'm not having any signs of dehydration. So, I'm going to try to get in 32 additional ounces before I go to bed for the night. I'll probably be up until midnight, but I took a 2 hour nap this afternoon.   John is doing well. We're halfway through this deployment, and I think the distance and time apart is finally starting to weigh on me. Maybe it's just because of everything that's transpired, but we talked about it. He reassured me that everything is going to be okay when he gets home.   I'm growing rather bored sitting at home, but I'm also trying to take it really easy. I talked to the agency owner today. I told her that Dr. M doesn't want me to go back for at least a month. They need to hire someone, and I'm not upset about it. I'm actually quite relieved. I have no plans on going back. John is pretty insistent on me getting healthy, and recovering fully without the stress of going back to work.   I hope everyone is doing well. Today is just one more day closer to the best husband in the world being home. 8 days until Caysen, the best son in the universe, comes home from Texas. Plus, my brother and best friend are bringing Caysen home, and staying for a week. I can't wait to see my family. . .
Tiffykins

Tiffykins

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