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Bariatric Surgery/NSAIDs and bariatric surgery

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Question
Is there a good substitute for NSAIDs after bariatric surgery?  I've got to choose between a vertical gastrectomy and RNY bypass.  The bypass is the gold standard for weight loss, but I've been told I could continue to take NSAIDs with a gastrectomy.  I'm 48 with BMI of 35, mild/moderate OS symptoms in hands, wrists, shoulders, and feet. I felt great while on Naproxen, but have been off for 3 weeks and now feel 10 years older.  I will try Tylenol, but shouldn't I be taking an anti-inflammatory for a inflammatory disease?

Answer
Mark,
Most patients find that Celebrex (an anti-inflammatory available by prescription) is very helpful for conditions like Osteoarthritis.  Although Celebrex is a cousin of standard NSAIDs, it does not have the same level of ulcer risk as they do.

Importantly, most patients find that their total body inflammation drops down a lot as they lose weight.  It is realistic to hope that you may not need anti-inflammatory meds after 4 months or so of weight loss.

Best of luck,
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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