HI all

I was just at my PCP today discussing the possibility of getting a Lap Band referral. The PCP stated he would give me one but told me to not be surprised if the Dr refused to do the surgery because of my spinal stenosis, hip and shoulder problems. The PCP has ordered MRI of my spine, hip and shoulder and feels that I should wait until those problems are taken care of first. Has any with spinal stenosis, hip, shoulder or even knee problems had a Dr who refused to do the surgery?

Hi Belle, and welcome to LBT.

Well, I have to say I'm really surprised by what your PCP told you. I don't understand how your joint problems would prevent you from having the band.

First of all, reduced weight would greatly reduce the stress on your hip. Many obese people, in the process of losing weight in preparation for their hip or knee surgery find that they don't need it after the weight is lost.

Secondly, what does he/she mean by "taking care of" your spinal stenosis? Does this mean surgery? Surgery is always safer with non obese patients.

In many cases spinal stenosis happens when one of the lower vertebrae slip forward, causing a bend in the spinal canal, effectively narrowing it. This can happen for a number of reasons, but it is certainly aggravated by excess weight on the belly.

The only reason I can possibly think of that having the stenosis will prevent you from having the surgery is that lying on your back during surgery may possibly cause further narrowing of the canal, however I've never heard of this happening.

I'm thinking that your PCP may be lacking knowledge in both stenosis and banding matters.

I would think that losing weight through banding would be of great benefit to you. There would be less stress on both your hip and lower spine. Eating much less means eating much more carefully to get proper nutrition, and usually this means less carbs. Less carbs means an anti-inflammatory effect on the body which will help decrease overall pain levels in all your joints.

If you're refused banding, ask questions. Make sure you're able to accept their answers. If you don't, make a case for banding. You may be able to save yourself a whole pile of other procedures down the road.

Good luck with it and keep us posted.

I have back problems from being in an elevator that collapsed with me on it several years ago. I had been told in a few years I will need surgery as my injuries are progressive. My Surgeon I met with said I probably won't need that surgery nor a hernia repair surgery (for the 3rd time). I would not let the PCP scare you off. Just make sure you do your research and check out your surgeon good. Yes, laying down for the little time you will need to will cause the back to hurt more -short term. Getting the weight off will help greatly long term. Don't let them slow you down.