Desperate for help to feel better

I had two stomach surgeries for weight loss in the 80s(staples across and lap band that didn't open and close). I had problems with scar tissue, so in 2005 I had the band removed and the surgeon made a connection from the small pouch area to the larger stomach area. After this, I developed what I believe is gastroparesis or slow stomach emptying. After my gastro doctor told me he did all he could do for me. I then had a subtotal colectomy. I had the best help from the subtotal colectomy, but I'm still in daily pain. I was searching for some help online and found this study that I have a link to below that talks about doing a gastrectomy and how it helped 86% of the patients who had it done and has gastroparesis due to a previous surgery, which I had. I had a friend recently who had a vertical sleeve gastrectomy for weight loss. I was wondering what you thought about me having that(I think it would be better to have a little stomach left and also the pylory so I don't have to deal with dumping so much). I also want to mention that after my 2005 surgery with the surgeon, I also have a part of my skin that feels it is attached to something inside. There is an actual pucker of the skin inward. I don't know if that had to be cut out(I'd be ok if I didn't have a belly button anymore) if I have enough skin to close or how that works.

Right now I have an HMO with Medicare as my secondary, so I don't know if it's even possible with these insurances. I would love your opinion on if you think any doctor would touch me and if not, why? I've heard of others who have had many surgeries for their problems. So, why if you need a surgery is a surgeon not willing to do it? I understand adhesions build up, but if I'm in constant pain now, then why not take a chance? Anyway, I'd like opinion one what I can do to try and get relief. I already take Reglan, but that only helps so much.  

http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1493653

[Kevin Pho, MD]

This is more of a surgery question rather than a GI question. Thus, I cannot answer the surgery portion of the question.

However, that being said, there are a variety of options to treat delayed gastric emptying.  I agree with the Reglan.  Antibiotics like erythromycin also have been used to treat gastroparesis, as well as treating any potential underlying cause like diabetes or thyroid disorders.

If there is an anatomical cause for the emptying, such as gastric outlet obstruction or pyloric stenosis, then a surgical option can be considered.

I would be evaluated at a major academic medical center to explore these considerations, or discuss them with your personal physician.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd