Gallbladder Removal/Hernia?
I've seen a few references about gallbladder removal and/or hernia repair being done at the same time the sleeve was done, and I have a few questions...
Why did you have your gallbladder removed? Did you have ongoing gallbladder issues and decided to kill two birds with one stone? Or was it something your surgeon recommended in conjunction with the surgery?
I've had some gallbladder issues over the last 10 years or so - mainly gallbladder attacks every so often. Some of them have been pretty bad and the very first one I had landed me in the E.R. I've had a range of tests on my gallbladder: the isotope test (the one that makes you feel like you're peeing on yourself), ultrasound, the test where you drink the chalky stuff. But they have all come back within the normal range. I consulted a surgeon who said that based on my test results, it was up to me if I wanted it removed or not. Since I'm totally afraid of anesthesia, I chose no.
As for hernias, I've never been tested/examined for those, but from what I've read/seen, hernias are pretty common in obese people. And a lot of times, we don't even know it.
What have your experiences been like?
Re: Gallbladder Removal/Hernia?
I had my hynal hernia (sp?) tightened up during surgery. Prior to the surgery I had terrible acid reflux. I asked the doctor to check on it cause it's right in the area they're doing surgery and figure while I'm out might as well get that fixed so they don't have to go in later. If it were me, I would want to get my gall bladder taken out if I had had the problems you have had. I doubt that the pain or recovery would be any worse.
Re: Gallbladder Removal/Hernia?
My doctor checked for gallbladder problems before surgery and all was fine, otherwise he would have taken it out, I did have a hiatal hernia and it was much larger than he thought going in, so it was a good thing that he repaired it...............all in all, it made for a longer surgery but no other complications due to it being done at the same time
Re: Gallbladder Removal/Hernia?
They tested me for gallstones and I had three. He wanted to take out my gallbladder bc he said since I was prone to gallstones after, the vsg I would have to have it out in about 6 months anyway. I agreed to this bc I had read a lot about it and there was a high risk of having to have it removed, and i wasnt sure what my insurance situation would be then. only problem, he didnt like to do it at the same time. very annoyed! the only reason I didnt go with another dr at that point is bc I didnt want to start over. I really liked my Dr. but I knew so many others who had it out at the same time in the SAME medical center. grrr. He DID say he would fix any hernias he found though but I had none.
Re: Gallbladder Removal/Hernia?
I had my gallbladder removed at the same time because I had gallbladder pain for years and I was a self pay. I decided since they were going to be in there, I might as well have it out at the same time.
Re: Gallbladder Removal/Hernia?
My Gall bladder is already gone but I am having a hiatal hernia repair with my sleeve- They did tests and say that it has to be done. My surgeon is very thorough.
Re: Gallbladder Removal/Hernia?
Thanks for the replies, everyone! I have an appointment tomorrow for a "re-consultation" and to set a surgery date. I have a list of questions to ask him about how he does things, and I'll definitely add this to my list.
I'm super scared of anesthesia, so I'm all about one-stop-shopping.