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Bariatric Surgery/gastric bypass-addiction transfer-alcohol

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Expert: - 12/2/2008


Question
Hello, My 42 year old "NORMAL GIRL" sister had gastric bypass surgery 2 years ago and lost about 110 lbs. Since then, this former social drinker has become a hard core alcoholic. She has been in 3, month long rehab sessions, spent a night in jail with a DUI, has attempted suicide twice. She is currently in a psych. ward in a Virginia hospital after taking the whole bottle of Zoloft pills and washing them down with beer. Is there anyone that could help my sister? We are desperate. Thank you.

Answer
Maryjane,
I am really sorry to hear about your sister's situation.  Alcohol addition seems to be an uncommon but a real occurrence related to gastric bypass surgery.

I regret to report that I don't have any special ideas beyond standard psychiatric therapy and support.

If she does not make progress after some time, it is conceivable that reversing the gastric bypass might reduce the physiologic impact of the alcohol, but that would not help her depression and other physical mental issues.

With my best wishes,
Dr JP

Bariatric Surgery

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Volunteer

John Pilcher, MD

Expertise

I can answer medically oriented questions about bariatric surgery including: patient selection, preparation for surgery, differences between types of bariatric surgery, aftercare following bariatric surgery. I can answer detailed questions about gastric bypass, Lap-Band, gastric sleeve, and revision bariatric surgery. I am only somewhat familiar with Biliopancreatic diversion. I am not prepared to answer insurance or other financial questions related to bariatric surgery.

Experience

I have been a practicing bariatric surgeon since 1995. About 85% of my current practice consists of bariatric surgery, including all of the above procedures except biliopancreatic diversion. I am the senior surgeon of a 5-surgeon group. I am recognized among surgeons and other medical professionals as the most experienced bariatric surgeon in my region.

Organizations
Fellow of American College of Surgeons Member, American Society for Bariatric Surgery

Education/Credentials
BA in Biochemistry - University of Virginia Medical Degree - University of Virginia Surgical Residency - University of Virginia

Awards and Honors
Alpha Omega Alpha

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