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Bariatric Surgery/Ventricular Shunt and Lap Band

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Expert: - 4/30/2009


Question
Hi, I had a VS placed when I was 13 to relieve pressure associated with head
trauma. I am now 26 and planning to get a Lap Band in the (hopefully) near
future.  I need to know if is is even possible to place the lap band with the shunt
already there. It runs from the back of my head, down my neck (left side), over
my breast bone and then into my abdomen.

Answer
Lindsey,
It should be OK, since the ventricular fluid (with the shunt) and the Band are both sterile procedures.

During Band placement, the surgeon will need to infuse CO2 gas under pressure.  I believe there should be a one-way valve in your VP shunt to prevent the CO2 gas from traveling backward through your shunt, but you definitely should check with your neurologist or neurosurgeon before going into Band surgery.

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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