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Bariatric Surgery/Lap Banb Post Surgery Recovery Stomach Spasms

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Expert: - 9/5/2009


Question
Hello,

I am now in my 3rd day of post lap band surgery.  I started to experience stomach rolling/spasm the second day after surgery.  I called my doctors office and was told by the nurse that this was probably being caused by the carbon dioxide in my stomach cavity. I am still experience this painful sensation, especially when I attempt to walk.  Can you tell me what might be causing this?  Should I be concerned?  Its Saturday and I have no way to contact my doctor.  Should I go to the emergency room?

Answer
Yvonne,
The best answer is that you should speak to your surgeon or whoever is covering for him/her.  It would be very unusual, and even concerning, if your doctor or some designated person is not available 24/7 for their surgical patients.

Regarding whether you should go to the ER, I'm really not in a position to answer that since I was not involved in your procedure and since I have no way to follow through for you.  I can say that if you are worried enough to ask the question then it is probably smart for you to go and be checked.

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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