You are here:

Bariatric Surgery/ulcerated fistula

Advertisement

Expert: - 6/3/2010


Question
Hello,

Could you please tell me the symptoms of a fistula?I have HORRIBLE acid reflux.I had gastric bypass almost 8 years ago.I am anemic, and always tired.
I experienced bad upper abdominal pain over the weekend .It was stabbing pains.I drove to the ER and they said maybe an ulcer , and a Catscan said suspicious fistula?

Answer
Therese,
I suspect the type of fistula they are referring to from the CT scan is a connection between your small stomach pouch and the larger lower part of your stomach that has been bypassed.  A fistula like this can certainly cause upper abdominal burning, pain, spasm (although it is not the only thing that can cause such symptoms).

The first thing for treatment usually is an acid-blocking medicine like prilosec.  Because of your severe pain, I definitely recommend for you to be seen by your bariatric surgeon for additional discussion and evaluation.  If your surgeon is not available, I recommend for you to obtain a referral from your primary doctor or find one on the Center of Excellence website at:

http://www.surgicalreview.org/locate.aspx

Best of luck!
Dr JP

Bariatric Surgery

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

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

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.