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Bariatric Surgery/symptoms months after bariatric surgery

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Expert: - 7/11/2007


Question
Thank you.
I live in U.K, my daughter last year had a gastric by-pass in Belgium. The weight loss so far has been 4stone (56 pounds) which she is pleased with as she has P.C.O.Syndrome and expected a slower weight loss, her acne and hirsutism has stayed the same though!
She has taken vitamin pills as advised, but for the last two months has experienced burning tight sensations in her knees, shoulders and abdomen, has anyone heard of this as I am very worried about her.
thanking you again.

Answer
Jean,
This situation does not ring a bell for me, though I share your concern.  I note your comment that your daughter has reliably been taking the recommended vitamins.  Nevertheless, whenever there is ANY question of a nerve problem in a bariatric surgical patient it is a smart move to have them take extra thiamine (also known as Vitamin B1), which is related to nerve function.

In the U.S., thiamine is available at the pharmacy without prescription, as a 100 mg tablet.  The recommended dose is 100 mg each day.

I also suggest that she see a neurologist, if she is not already set up to do so.

Best of luck for your daughter,
Dr JP

Bariatric Surgery

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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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