I have a VP shunt that goes from the right side of my head to my stomach and I want to get gastric bypass -- is it safe?

Question

Will the surgery be safe, I'm 4'6 and 187 lbs with a bmi of 47, I've been approved for the surgery but in the midst of the procedure she had to stop due to too much scar tissue. Should I continue with the process or give up and find alternative ways to lose weight.

Ali Solmaz, MD · Answer

Having a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt does not automatically prevent you from undergoing gastric bypass, but it does make the surgery more complex. The shunt tubing runs from the brain into the abdominal cavity, so your bariatric surgeon must take special care to avoid damaging or disturbing it during surgery. Coordination with your neurosurgeon is very important in these cases to ensure the shunt remains protected and functioning properly.
The fact that your previous surgeon had to stop due to scar tissue also adds to the complexity. Dense adhesions in the abdomen can make bariatric surgery technically difficult and increase risks, but this does not necessarily mean surgery is impossible. In many cases, experienced bariatric surgeons can safely proceed with a gastric bypass or consider alternative procedures, though the risks and potential benefits need to be carefully weighed.
With a BMI of 47, you clearly meet the medical criteria for bariatric surgery, and given your height and weight, surgery could significantly improve your long-term health. Rather than giving up, I would recommend seeking consultation at a high-volume bariatric center where surgeons have experience with complex revision or high-risk cases. They can review your surgical history, imaging, and the specifics of your VP shunt to determine the safest approach.
It may still be possible to have gastric bypass, but it requires careful planning, collaboration with your neurosurgeon, and possibly a surgeon experienced in advanced adhesiolysis. I would not advise giving up without a second opinion from a specialized bariatric team.

Michael F. Sedrak, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

it’s safe in and of itself, but it may become a technical issue. If a surgeon tried to operate but could not because of scar tissue, well, it’s not to say it’s not possible, but why not also look at alternatives. Such as sleeve gastrectomy or lap band. Both would involve not moving around scarred intestine and help treat your serious morbid obesity

I have a VP shunt that goes from the right side of my head to my stomach and I want to get gastric bypass -- is it safe?

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