DR. C, I found this note on a lapband site. When did most doc's start using this new technique and do you use it?:focus: I was banded by Dr. Ortiz in Mexico Nov 05.

I am just wanting to feel comforted by knowing he probably used the newer technique. I know he trains docs so he should know his stuff.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Prolapse of the Stomach

Prolapse or slippage of the stomach underneath the band occurs in 1-2% of patients due to the use of the Pars Flaccida technique. The Bariatric Center uses this technique, in which the band is 'fixed' in place higher on the stomach and part of the stomach is sewn over the band. This technique drastically reduces the incidence of stomach prolapse.

Kay

Kay,

I would think every surgeon would use this technique, and should have been for at least the last couple of years.

Dr. C

Cincinnati, Ohio

www.TheBandDoctor.com 877.442.BAND

DISCLAIMER: I am not your surgeon, any comments made by me are not meant to be taken as medical advice, just general guidelines. Contact your surgeon about your specific problem!

My understanding after several phone calls to Inamed after my erosion last December, is that they suggested to all Surgeons placing the Band in both US and MX to start using the Pars Flaccida. Inamed went on to say they can only suggest this technique to the surgeons. They cannot regulate how each person runs their practice or their techniques. I do know that my band surgeon in MX used the perigastric (OLD TECHNIQUE) and that is most likely why I eroded. Although it couldn't be considered absolute reason. Just my theory, after speaking with my US Surgeon and Inamed.

It boils down to you just don't know for sure what technique is being used unless you ask. This goes back to being more informed and doing your research.

When I first looked into the band and went to my seminar, my surgeon described the procedure and does use this technique.

Well I often refer to my LapBand as the "Silicone Freeloader" :phanvan but also as a Ticking Time Bomb. I've been banded so long (2001) they still used the OldSchool perigastric technique on me...

Most doctors started using the Pars Flaccida method between 2002 & 2003 and that technique is associated with much lower rates of erosion....so don't worry.

Now as for me...

(*tick*tick*tick - do you hear that?)

You can find out if this technique was used during your surgery by reading your Operative Record. At least mine did describe the technique used by name and details.

Kay,

I would think every surgeon would use this technique, and should have been for at least the last couple of years.

Dr. C

Cincinnati, Ohio

www.TheBandDoctor.com 877.442.BAND

DISCLAIMER: I am not your surgeon, any comments made by me are not meant to be taken as medical advice, just general guidelines. Contact your surgeon about your specific problem!

Thanks. That makes me feel better. I have not any reflux but have been unfilled every time except my FIRST FILL. I put off the unfill last time for 3 weeks and got dehdrated and then had to go get magnesium infused. I complained to my PCP about how fatigued I was. He checked my level and it was low. I felt better as soon as I had the unfill but it took awhile to get my energy level back.

Thanks for all you do for us bandsters. WE can tell you really care.

Kay

Thanks to LBT, this was a question I asked my surgeon pre-surgery. He replied that he did indeed use this procedure. Once again, I am so thankful for this site. :biggrin1: