pancreatitis

Question
I had Gastric bypass surgery back in 1999.  I did very well for 4 years then developed the dumping syndrome, pancreatitis (which has been very bad over the past year, in and out of the hospital 5 times, plus surgery to put a stint in the pancreas), not to mention all the other issues such as malnutrition, dehydration, and various other side effects.  My question refers to is it possible for the surgery to be the cause of the pancreatitis.  My gastro doc (not the surgeon) has related it to the surgery and is frustrated because he can not get the pancreatitis under control.  I am on many meds and unable to work at this time.  I am looking for a doctor that would be able to help me get back my vitality.  Any ideas are greatly appreciated!

Answer
Hi Kim:

I'm so sorry you've had so many complications.  Short answer, yes... your Roux-en-Y can definitely be contributing to your pancreatitis.  I have no idea if possibly reversing your Roux-en-Y would solve the problem.  Your best bet would be to speak to a skilled revision surgeon.  Two names that come to mind are Dr. John Husted in Somerset, Kentucky (http://www.johnhustedmd.com/) and Dr. Michel Gagner in Miami Beach, FL (http://www.mountsinaibariatrics.com/).

If you do attempt a revision/reversal... please, please make sure you use an experienced revision surgeon.

I'm sorry I can't offer more advice.  If you give me some idea to your location, I can try and find a revision surgeon close to you.

Good luck!
Karla

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