Slippage + Hernia = resurgery..change band?

Long story short: I have a slipped band (probably over 2 yrs old) and a hiatal hernia. Symptoms: esophagus always feels "swollen", vomiting fluids in the night time, have to sleep elevated. I am completely unfilled; however, have restriction. After seeing new dr (because we moved from FL to SC), we decided to ask insurance for resurgery. We are waiting on answer but what decision should I make???

1. Fix the band
2. Get gast. bypass (not)
3. Do the sleeve instead.

When I first got the band in 2002 I lost 120 lbs. And slowly, I have regained it through complications, unfills, 2 surgerys to fix broken ports. The list goes on. To top the list, I, of course, am my worst enemy...

How did I let this slippage go on for so long: During all these problems, my dr kept asking me to get a upper GI. I would just shrug it off, get unfilled and go back after 6 weeks and fill again. He always just did what I asked. Anyway, now I am in SC with a different dr and awaiting insurance answer......and vomiting every night!!!!!

I want to fix the band, because I remember when I lost all that weight, successfully and I think I remember the "full satisfied" feeling. However, all I really remember is a) feeling full and b) throwing up. What if I get the band fixed and I mess it up again or it messes itself up again? I'm really scared. Why not just do the sleeve?

I have heard a lot about the sleeve being used on band patiences and not just the 1st phase of another surgery but instead a great alternative to the band. Anyone heard of it as a way of weight loss and not just the 1st of 2 surgeries?

I want to feel accomplished again. I want to feel good about myself again. I am just afraid that I will mess up the band if I repair it.

Any thoughts?

In my experience about 50-60% of patients in your boat will do well after repair of slip and hiatal hernia, about 30-40% will have further problems. The sleeve is not a bad option for maintenance especially. Hope this helps!

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!