Brian

I looked at the Realize site. Looks like Ethicon (Johnson and Johnson) is the manufacturer. Is it merely a "me too' product, or are there real design differences? Anyone actual read the study? Is there a link to it somewhere? This is their FDA approval study for 3 years, and is certainly going to be presented in the most favorable terms by the web-site and manufacturer.

Greetings, interesting topic. My doctor told our group that he didn't want anyone messing with the port, (especiallly the nurses! ha) Of the 500+ LB he has installed, he mentioned that one had to come out later because a nurse was putting in her own fills and got an infection. (I don't know details). Soooo, like others said, withdraw the tainted fill and put in new NS; I think that would be about all you could do. As to the specific question, platelets will clot and whole blood is a medium for bacterial growth, but to clinical relevance, don't know. When I get my LB, I plan on letting them do everything, because I fear that I don't trust myself. That may be the bigger issue. good luck.

Hi, As one who has given a fair number of injections, etc., I would suggest that when you decide to get the injection, blood draw, IV, whatever, really have decided in advance that you will indeed get it done. Don't be ambivalent. This helps the "shot-giver", this in turn will only be to your advantage. Voice your fear to the clinician. Have a friend come with you; hold her hand, (or finger if you squeeze too hard.) I find that even another staff member being the "comfort" person is a real help. It generally isn't the pain that is bothersome; but the emotional load. Some patients tell me that when they were young, an injection was forced on them, held down etc. Most patients, naturally, look away, but don't close their eyes; they try to be distracted. Some don't do well with the "1, 2, 3 stick" routine. It is like getting your picture taken; eyes are closed again, but in this case, it heightens anxiety and tension. Just feel the painful sensation, anticipate it, wrap your mind around it. Personally, the worst "shots" I had was an arterial blood gas, (on a ventilator) and always liked a little "juice" (morphine or whatever I was getting) in preparation. Maybe a Xanax would help? With ya bud. looking at June 30th for my banding.

Hi Aubrie, I read somewhere in one of these forums, recently, someone who sucked on cheese puffs for those cravings. I'm not banded, yet, and can't recommend it, but there it is- for emergencies? Brian

Hi, I'll let more qualified people speak to you about the procedure, but I think it is very good that your doctor is taking that precaution. My doctor has done about 500 LB surgeries and he has had one patient die, and it was post-op blood clots, (massive cascade of pulmonary emboli). One thing you may suggest, if not already done, is the Factor V Leiden blood test. Factor V, (five) is a coagulopathy- a hereditary blood clotting disorder often found in Scandinavians. If you have a clotting disorder, independent of risk factors of weight, immobility and surgery, it is best to prepare for that at the onset. Good luck, brian

Hi, You've had some very good replies. I would only add that your doctor can tell you if it is "telogen hair loss", that is, the hair in the intact follicle is falling out, but is expected to regrow. Oral zinc pill and a good zinc shampoo are often used. Good luck.

Hi, if you are self-pay, and don't have surgical risk issues, I bet you could be done in a month... Doctors go on vacations, etc. I waited a year to think about it, read about, search my heart, (and stomach) and have a date next month. I thought the psychological preparation is the big deal. will be the big deal. /good luck.

Hi all, anyone know if the weight loss, of lack thereof, prior to surgery has anything to do with or w/o the gas and shoulder pain I'm reading about? (i.e., more room more gas more pain, vs. more "room", and therefore less gas needed to forcefully inflate the abdominal area...)

Hi, I think I can help you with this one: A "nurse" is legal description, indicating licensure as either an LPN "Licensed Practical Nurse", (LVN in California); or a Registered Nurse. It also would include Advanced Practice nurses such as Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, Clinical Nurse Specialists, etc. A Medical Assistant is not a nurse. It is illegal to represent oneself as a "nurse", unless you are so licensed.

Hi, I am strongly in favor of LapBand, and will be getting in July. My doc recommended RNY about 10 years ago, while #290. My insurance doesn't cover, (then or now). I think the risk:benefit profile make by-pass unacceptable. I'm not diabetic, (yet), nor have sleep apnea, (yet), etc. I'm glad I didn't have RNY, even though I'm now #317lbs. I think with banding it is all about follow-up with your support groups, careful titration to optimal "fills", no soda pop, no liquids with meals, and meal planning. It will work if you make. By-pass is virtually irreversible. If LapBand (or "you") "fail", it can be safely and effectively removed.