Contrary to what seems to be fairly common on this board, my doctor does not require a pre-op upper GI. What does this test for anyway? Should I be worried? The only pre-op testing required was a CBC (blood) and pregnancy test.

Do all lapbanders do a barium swallow prior to leaving the hospital. What does that test for? I'm not sure if this is part of my doctor's routine either.

I know I should have asked these questions to my doctor during the consult but I'm just now thinking about them.

The post-op barium swallow is so that they can see how the band is working. Then you get to see the xrays. I thought it was really cool to see it working. A fun way to connect with what you just had done to your body.

I did not have it pre-op or post-op and I have an excellent surgeon. When it comes to the lapband, it seems every surgeon has different standards and rules.

Pre-operatively, an upper GI seems to depend on the patient's particular circumstances. Many people don't have to have that test at all.

Post-op, there must be SOME test done in the hopsital to show that the band was placed correctly and Fluid can move unimpeded down the esophagus. I'd guess that in most US hospitals that's a barium swallow under a fluoroscope (basically, an x-ray movie). There are other ways to perform that test but that's probably the most common.