AboutJohn 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
Question Hello. I'm nearly 4 years postop from an open RNY. Lately, no matter what I'm eating or drinking, or even early when I haven't done either, I'm burping a lot. I've lost 122lbs. and have manage to maintain. Is there a mechanical cause for the burping? I don't remember burping this much in the beginning. Do you have any suggestions for diagnosis and or treatment?
Thank you!
Cathy
Answer Cathy,
This is an interesting question that I've not encountered before. I'm presuming that you've thought about obvious stuff, such as a new habit of drinking soda.
My best guess is that you're developing (or re-developing?) some degree of reflux problem, and that you've begun to (unconsciously) swallow frequently to try to clear the irritants from your esophagus.
The best way to test this would be an Upper GI series (X-ray swallowing test) or upper scope. I recommend you check this out with your bariatric surgeon, though this does not ring a bell for me as something dangerous.
