the Rose precudure

Question
I had the gastric bypass surgery 20 years ago.  I live in Mississippi. We had no doctors in the state that does this type surgery. I am looking for a Dr. in the Mobile, Alabama area. I also would like to know if there is another name for this procedure so I can contact my insurance to see if they pay for it.  I am disable and need to have my knees replaced, but I need to loose weight before I have them done. Are there any way you can help me.  I am also disable. Will be waiting to hear from you.
Gloria
Petal, Ms

Answer
Gloria,

I am assuming that what you are trying to find is someone who can do a revision of some kind to your current gastric bypass?  The ROSE procedure is done with a device that is inserted down the throat and stitches the inside of the pouch to sort of tighten it or make it smaller.  This is one of several procedures of its kind - the others are Stomaphyx and sclerotherapy.  Some doctors will also place a gastric band over the gastric bypass, and still others will surgically revise the original procedure.  Given how long ago you had your gastric bypass done, you likely have a larger pouch than in now used, and there could be other differences.  The best thing you can do, especially since this would be a revision and you have disabilities is to find a Center of Excellence in your area.  The easiest way to do this is to go to this website: http://www.surgicalreview.org/locate.aspx and search for your area.  You want to make sure you are talking to a doctor who is experienced in revisional bariatric surgery - that is the most important thing.  Revisions of any kind are harder than the first surgery and are more of a risk to you.  So you want a doctor who does this as a major part of his practice.

Please let me know if you need more information.

In Health.

Dr. Jacques

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