Bariatric Surgery/Staples on VSG

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Expert: - 8/13/2008


Question
Dear Doctor:

I am thinking on having a VSG surgery, but I am concerned about the long term effects that the staples could cause on the long term to my stomach. I am concerned that becasue these staples are metal objects they can end up hurting the tissue on my stomach. Is this possible? and if it happens, what whould happen? Your answer will be appreaciated

Thanks

Cesar

Answer
Cesar,
I understand your concern.  The good news is that the staples that are used for all surgery on the intestinal tract (including VSG) are so tiny that they are difficult to see with the naked eye.  This type of staple was in use long before laparoscopic surgery began, and the staples are very safe to have in your body for decades and decades.

Incidentally, the very small size of the staples means that the amount of metal is very small - the staples do not cause activation of airport metal detectors.

Best of luck with your weight loss journey!

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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