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Bariatric Surgery/Roux en Y Reversal

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Expert: - 2/15/2010


Question
Doctor,
I have spoken with Dr. Elliot Goodman who told me he can reverse my roux en y done in 2003. I am aware that I may/will regain my weight, but I am deficient in B12, calcium, Vitamin D & iron-deficient anemic. Treatments are not helping. Besides for regaining the weight, is the reversal safe and effective? Will my nutrient levels return to "normal"? Any info you have on this will help me greatly! Dr. Goodman is the first surgeon I have spoken with & I am looking for other opinions.

Thanks much!

Answer
Naomi,
If the gastric bypass is fully reversed, it is reasonable to expect that you will regain normal nutrition including all the deficiencies you mention above.

I need to defer you to Dr. Goodman for a more specific discussion of risk, but I think I can be accurate in letting you know that reversal of a gastric bypass is moderately complex and risky because of the scar tissue from previous surgery.

Best of luck to you,
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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