What can I do about lap band slip and unable to have it removed? 12 years post op.

Question

My lap band has slipped. This has been confirmed by an upper GI. I have esophagitis. I have had my band for 12 years. When I had it for about 2 years I got ulcers in my esophagus and was very sick from it. My band has been empty fort the last 2 years. I can't eat solid food. I know I need to have it removed but the insurance I have now will not cover anything to do with bariatric surgery. I do not have the money to be self pay. Will I be ok leaving it in?

Shawn Garber, MD, FACS, FASMBS · Answer

If you are have a symptomatic with a slip it is very important to have the band fixed or completely removed,  A slip can lead to severe erosive esophagitis that can lead to Barrett's esophagus ( a precancerous condition) and also can lead to necrosis and perforation of the stomach if it becomes really bad.  A removal of a slipped Lap-Band should be covered by all insurances in an emergent situation like this.  I would complain to your state insurance department and seek the advice of a qualified bariatric surgeon right away.

Mark Pleatman, MD (retired) · Answer

It's not a surgical emergency to remove your band, but you will continue to suffer as you are.  Continued regurgitation will lead to decay and loss of your teeth.  Your esophagus can get damaged more than it already is.  You get my drift....You need to have the band removed.  There are inexpensive options.  I'm sure you can find a surgeon in Mexico who would do it for a few thousand dollars.  I am somewhat limited in how low I can reduce my fee since most of the money goes to the hospital, but I could probably do it for $5000 "all inclusive."  But you need to get it removed sooner rather than later.  Good luck.

What can I do about lap band slip and unable to have it removed? 12 years post op.

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