horsnhound

Dr. Watkins, What is your opinion on the viability of the stomach after the plication surgery. I was informed that eventually the stomach would adhere to itself and really could not be taken down after a month or two. I ask this as a Barretts esophagus patient that would need the use of my stomach should my Barretts progress to esophageal cancer.

Hi Dr. Jossert, I am looking at WLS but was informed a few years back by a surgeon that as a person with Barretts esophagus I was not a good candidate for the VSG, as I need my stomach. Cutting out the curvature would in effect "burn my bridge" should my Barretts 'go south'. I have DM2 and HBP and severe obstructive sleep apnea. These comorbs will all be helped greatly, if not totally resolved with WLS, however I have several other issues that present as contraindictions to WLS, namely the Barretts, GERD, IBS, severe anemia, and frequent reoccurrance of kidney stones and gross hematuria. I am at my wits end in researching all the different wls. I have been looking into this for 7 years and my health is getting progressively worse. I am a 43 year old female with a current weight of 285 and stand 5'8. My BMI is 43. I have researched the Band, RNY, VSG and DS. I am also looking in to the Plication/Imbrication but was informed by Dr. Cottam that the stomach will ahere to itself eventually and really can't be 'taken down' after the first 2 months or so. Can you offer any insight as to which surgery might be best for me? I am feeling a bit desperate here. I am located in Northern California.