It seems kinda crazy to me that with so many people having this procedure done there isn't more help out there for us. I have been told by my doctor's office that if I ever have an emergency to drive to the hospital where my procedure was done (which is half accross town) , so I called the hospital a mile from my house to inquire if something were to ever happen- would someone in the e.r. be able to unfill my band and they said no!!! I am nervous now if I ever travel- am I supposed to get unfilled with the fear that there is no help if I need it. Murphy's law is- if i am gonna need help- I will be in trouble!

I had to go to for an emergency unfill at the hospital where I had my surgery. The local hospital doesn't have a bariatric specialist on staff. Luckily, it's only happened once.

It would be smart to not get a fill right before going away. After a few days, you'll know if you need an unfill and can take care of it locally.

Edited May 22, 200818 yr by libra
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How long have you been banded, how many fills have you had, and have you ever needed an emergency unfill?

That's what I would think about. For me, I have needed to be unfilled, but by no means emergency. I have yet to have an emergency unfill situation.. If you're really worried about it, wherever you are travelling, call and find a local hospital or doctor who could help you should the occasion arise.

The other day I was really naseous and getting worried I might throw up. I am very fearful about throwing up because of slippage, etc. Luckily, I was able to take a pill and knock myself out. I just wanted to be prepared in case anything happens in the future, I am supposed be traveling in a few weeks. If I ever go on a cruise, I would be really screwed because I wouldn't want to get unfilled and be able to eat everything in sight! I was banded 3/12. I thought it said that on my signature information. I had my 1st fill 2 weeks ago.

I was just filled Thursday and taking trip to St. Lucia n couple of weeks and thinking about care there. I have always wondered about regulr Dr.s in U.S. but not really when traveling. I guess we take each day as it comes and do the best we can given circumstances or Ill be spending summer all alone at home:blush:

If no one in the ER is familar with it ask for an oncology nurse and a huber needle. The port is similiar to ports they use for chemo so they would be your best bet. You could also ask your doctor for a needle for emergency situations.

I was just filled Thursday and taking trip to St. Lucia n couple of weeks and thinking about care there. I have always wondered about regulr Dr.s in U.S. but not really when traveling. I guess we take each day as it comes and do the best we can given circumstances or Ill be spending summer all alone at home:blush:

Woo Hoo - I've just come back from St Lucia and I'm still jealous that you're going :biggrin:. I got filled a couple of weeks before I went too (I think I have finally hit my sweet spot with this one ) - I would suggest just being extra cautious when your eating taking small bites, chewing well until your sure the food is going down well. I didn't have any problems but I spent most of my time drinking rum punch . Have a good time!!

I wasn't able to swallow anything, including water. My physican's assistant came in to do the "unfill". There are enough surgeons around who are familiar with the surgery now that I'm sure an ER could get you the care you need.