Is it safer to have band unfilled prior to an elective surgical procedure(i.e. gallbladder) with an general anesthesia ? Is there more chance of vomiting or aspiration?

My surgeon didn't think this was an issue but wondering about others experience. Thanks

I think that is a question for your two surgeons....the general surgeon doing the gallbladder and your lap band surgeon. I would definitely discuss with both.

I had my gallbladder out 3 weeks ago by my lapband doc. There is no need to unfill.

Christine

I wouldn't think it would be as much of an issue if the surgeon is aware and has some anti-nausea medication that can be utilized immediately if needed. Also, your stomach is empty at the time of surgery as long as you follow your pre-surgical eating guidelines. If your stomach is empty, you wouldn't have anything of substance trying to push its way back up through the small band opening.

Another way to tell if this will be an issue is your past history. Did you have any issues with vomiting post banding or any other surgery? If so you may want to take extra precautionary measures. If it wasn't an issue you should be OK.

Thanks for the input. Did see my surgeon today, she is a general surgeon, as well as my lap band surgeon. She agreed to take out a little fluid before surgery, which is going to be tomorrow. I feel better about that as I'm at maximum restriction, which is fine but wouldn't want to be this tight and chance nausea or vomiting.