Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Jejunoileal (intestinal) bypass surgery

If Patty1955 is still around, I had the surgery in 1978.  I am not sure what is going on with me right now except I know that I don't feel well.


This discussion is related to Jejunoileal (intestinal) bypass surgery.
31 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
Has anyone had knee replacement
Years after jib bypass . I’m have my knee done . Thanks Pataroony
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Has anyone had knee replacement
Years after jib bypass . I’m have my knee done . Thanks Pataroony
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I had my JIB surgery in 1979--I was 340 lbs and 5'4".  I went down to 185 lbs in 14 months. I stayed around 180-185 for many years. Now I am 65 years old and weigh 220. I hate that I have gained weight! Had my gallbladder out in 1989. I have had anemia off and on, chronic insomnia and fatigue and muscle weakness/pain. I fight with diarrhea constantly. I have done the round of antibiotics for bacterial overgrowth...diarrhea is better for few weeks then I am back to using Lomotil 2-3 times a day on occasion, 6-8 times on bad days and when I get to 14 tabs per day with no help---back to the gastroenterologist. I have had bad arthritis and generalized pain. In the past 15 years I have had a constant battle with Vit.D. I take 15,000 units of D3 3x/day, and am lucky to keep my level between 28-36! The low vitD seems to be an issue for many of you that had the JIB surgery--But I have not seen anyone mention multiple sclerosis. I was diagnosed with MS in 2012, though I had symptoms for about 5 years prior. I have attributed many of my symptoms to MS, but after reading all of the posts on this, I wonder how many of my symptoms are actually related to the JIB surgery. I am really glad I found this site and would love to hear from any of you...I live in Cheney, WA.  My surgery was done by Dr. Howard Payne in Los Angeles, CA.
Helpful - 0
2 Comments
Any problems with colon polyps.
I had pre cancerous one .other than that I'm doing pretty well
I have looked at post from other JIB patients in the past and think its time to again keep up to date on how many of us still are alive and what we are all doing.  Here is a brief outline of my issues.

At age 21 I attained a weight of 430 lbs

In 1971 a Jejuno-ileal bypass (JIB) was done at Harbor General Hospital (Bray, Benfield) can’t remember if it was end to end or end to side. Weight declined to 195 lbs. after about 2yrs. Gradual gain to 265 lbs which remained relatively constant for many years. Recently have been losing weight due to many complications and am at 205 lbs.

Hemorrhoids developed about 5 years after the JIB with subsequent Hemorrhoidectomy. Recovered for many years but this has resurfaced and may have to have additional surgery.

Several kidney stones (oxalate) and 1 bladder stone over the last 15 years. Treatment has included Lithotripsy, Ureteroscopic removal and just passing the stone.

Blind loop syndrome has been a constant complaint with periodic antibiotic therapy to ease the flatulence, joint pain /fever and reduce frequency of bowel movements. I have also used Imodium and Lomotil for control of the diarrhea. Flagyle and tetracycline used alternately as needed due to antibiotic resistance.

In recent years the frequency of antibiotic therapy has been 1-2 times a year with good results. Since December of 2005, I have had 5 courses of Flagyle (3 x 100 mg/day 10 days) with return of symptoms following within a few days after taking the last dose. I have not taken any antibiotics for the blind loop symptoms for a couple of years but have had many courses of antibiotics to treat recurring UTIs.

Symptoms include: constant flatulence, increased frequency of bowel movements with associated gas and more explosive bowel movements leading to rectal bleeding, soreness, itching and general lethargy. Have also have had a few minor UTI  these have not been treated separately but have noted a loss of symptoms during the above antibiotic regimes. Many UTI’s and lately have found I have urine retention likely due to an enlarged prostrate. I have also developed severe sciatica like symptoms but have not yet had any imaging to confirm.

Periodic blood work has been in the normal range.
Colonoscopy- normal:  Performed last year in conjunction with a routine physical.


Past medications: Flagyle (2x100 mg/day), multivitamins, Viagra (50mg ~ 2-4 month)
Avatar universal
I had the JIB in 1978. I initially weighed 335 lbs (5ft 1/2in). My surgery was done in  Marion, Ohio by Dr Hering, who has since retired. I lost down to 145 lbs at one point but have yoyoed  up to 225. I now weigh182 which isn't the issue. I have had numerous kidney stones, a fistula repair and several hospitalizations due to partical bowel blockages. My energy is nil. My hair is thin, I have fibromyalgia, and continue to seek a physician who understands my nonabsorption problems. I have low iron, so I get infusions, I take potassium and magnesium but it continues to dive low often. I wonder how many survivors of the JIB exists. Hang in there, and best wishes for a life full of love. Family love and support keeps me hanging on.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Amazed to find some recent posts from JIB survivors.  I had mine done in 1975 and until recently have not had any diagnosed surgery related problems other than plummeting B12 and D issues when I get lazy about taking the supplements.  Now after a complete small bowel obstruction that has opened partially my UCSF Bariatric surgeon says I need to be reconnected.  Stanford surgeons disagree and say it's very dangerous but I do need an exploratory laparotomy to find the cause, so here I am at the age of 71, on a liquid diet since January 6th, wondering which is the right decision or perhaps staying on a liquid diet rather than facing a potentialy dangerous procedure not to mention debilitating life after surgery waiting for a 41 year old atrophied piece of intestine to come to life.  The UCSF surgeon says there are only a handful of us left and most have either passed or been reversed.  Big decision that needs to be made fairly quickly as my weight loss is hard to control and I'm down 15 pounds since the obstruction and I wasn't overweight at the time.  Thank god for ice cream, keeps the weight up but I'm actually getting pretty tired of it, who would have thunk lol.  Any way just felt compelled to add to the comments I've read here.  We each have had our own unique journey following the procedure and given the statistics we can be considered the lucky ones.  
Helpful - 0
15743442 tn?1442686660
I had my bypass 41 yrs ago and now at the age of 64 I guess I can gratefully say I'm okay.  Sure, have had the standard loose bowels, low potassium and a few other annoying symptoms, all-in-all I guess I should be grateful, especially after reading some of these posts.  The one thing I'm working on now is actually a reverse of standard loose bowels; having intermittent constipation.  After looking at the things I'm eating, I have finally come to the conclusion that foods high in fiber seem to give me the most problems.  They just sit in my gut too long.  So, I'll be reducing the high fiber foods for awhile.  However, the one item that I have found to make the most impact on how my gut feels and reacts is to remove as much sugar from it as possible.  Fought this for years thinking I could find out just how much sugar to eat to prevent the consequences but ultimately went over resulting in negative effects, so gave up sugar - real and artificial.  Basically changed my life and my guts life.  Misery is a bloated, rumbling, gaseous gut and as long as I keep sugars out of it I'm a different person.  Those of us who have had this procedure walk basically alone.  Not in all the years of going to the doctor have I ever had one, and I have had good physicians, that ever really wanted to talk about the procedure and that's because they just don't know enough to comment or discuss it which leaves us without informed guidance as problems arise. I know now how much of a guinea pig I was when I underwent this but like a lot of us a possible long term answer to being obese was the dangled carrot we just couldn't look away from.  No, I would not do this again but I have taken full responsibility for my choice and tried to handle it the best I could.  I am in good overall health and am grateful for this everyday....bypass and all.  My best for my fellow travelers.
Helpful - 0
2 Comments
Hi, I had my JIB in 1974 in Los Angeles am 70 yrs old and just recently started having dumping issues. Seem to have liver issues also, but am very healthy, no meds at all. Feel great and certainly would do it again. My surger was done by Dr Daniel Mitchell at white memorial medical center.  I no longer live in california and am unable to find a dr in coeur d alene, ID that knows anything or wants to know about my surgery. If anyone knows of a dr in my area would love the in (close to spokane, WA) Thanks
Hi, I had my JIB in 1974 in Los Angeles am 70 yrs old and just recently started having dumping issues. Seem to have liver issues also, but am very healthy, no meds at all. Feel great and certainly would do it again. My surger was done by Dr Daniel Mitchell at white memorial medical center.  I no longer live in california and am unable to find a dr in coeur d alene, ID that knows anything or wants to know about my surgery. If anyone knows of a dr in my area would love the in (close to spokane, WA) Thanks
Avatar universal
I had my jib in 1979 I'm 59. I do have some overgrowth issues. But I gave been a vegetarian for 5 years. Anyone our there that is ok .
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Shortdee here agin. I don't want tio sound like there have never been trouble- but want to give a little hope and encouragent to others out there experocning trouble. I was very fornuatet to have found a doctor that was willing to reserach this surgery and find a plan for me. It toll many years and many doctors to find one thhough. If you are doing the reserch for yourself I hope my treatment plan helps. Stay healthy!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I had intestinal bypass in 1973 and never had it reversed. I am now 61/62 yrs old. About twenty five years ago I was experinecing fevor and chills as well as arthritis syptoms. I was dianosed with Intenstinal bypass sydrome (BADA). I have taken a antibiotic (metronidazole) everyday since and feeling great.  About 3 years ago I did have to have my gallbladder taken out. The doctor would only do open surgery so healing took a little longer but no problems since. Occassionally (rarely) my back will flare up with arthritis pain, during those times I increase my anitbiotic to twice a day for about a week then go back to once a day.
Hope this helps anyone out there that can't figure out what is happening to their body.  Good luck and stay thin - well a little thin- I am not skinny but not way overweight either.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I know your post is from 2008...but i thought I  would answer  it anyway.  

I have the leg cramps all the time at night. It is a pain and bother. It is hard getting sleep anyway.  I take that packet of Energize. ..it is a vit C but has fast absorbing potassium that helps right away.  I keep it and water at my bedside.

I take a lot of vitamins like C...D3...B...B12 and try to eat right.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi. I am teresa, and I  had the jib when I  was 17.  I am 63 now.  I also got no follow up. Mine was done in Nampa Idaho.

I saw your last sentance. ..I suppose I  am glad I got it too...even though my life has been hard dealing with the symptoms and never feeling normal.  I weigh 235 now, but trying to lose still.  I did not get reversal. My bypassed small intestine has all been removed over the years as it went bad.

never thought I  would see anyone else who had it so young...they would never do that in this day and age. No council or anything. My parents just told me that they had a great idea!  
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I am one. 63 years old now. I got the jib when I  was 17. I had repair surgeries but never a reversal. At this time I have the typical symptoms of diarrhea, bad skin, arthritis,  failing kidneys, and what the doctors calls strange liver tests.

I got mine in Nampa, Idaho. It has been a rough life.  I take a lot of suppliments like vit c..D3...B 12...tumeric ,  lots of water.

I  weigh 235.  Lots of superfluous skin.  
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I had JIB in 1986, even though the medical community were not recommending the procedure as early as 1977 - due to complications.  I have suffered from bacterial overgrowth since approx 2003.  Prednisone and Cypro (steroids and antibiotics x 3 annually) resolve issue until next episode.  Now I have an extended abdomen, short-gut syndrome and dumping, fecal incontinence, malabsorption (sometimes pills end up in toilet looking the same as when they went in), chronic dehydration.  I was diagnosed with Stage 3 kidney failure which was confirmed by ultrasound and blood test over time.  Although CKD (chronic kidney disease) is a long term complication of JIB, it seems that mine may have been acutely related to dehydration and the pain medication I was on.  I am no longer considered to have it - for now.  Non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver is also a long term complication.  Last three ultra sounds - ordered by GP - confirm enlarged liver.  Referred to several specialists but none will take on patients with a history of bariatric surgery.  They say that every bariatric surgery patient will have this and there's nothing you can do other than diagnose-no treatment.  Which is not helpful if the cause of the enlarged liver is caused by something else such as cancer.  How would one ever be accepted as a patient by a liver specialist?  You give this right up because you had an earlier surgery?  Here are some of my thoughts.  I was told the life expectancy of JIB patients is 55.  I'm about to turn 54 and my life has gone downhill so drastically over past two years.  55 - possible?  Anytime you take a supplement, try to take the citrate version (magnesium citrate, calcium citrate, etc).  They absorb much quicker.  Even though you suffer from "dumping" keep eating the veggies.  I used to eat like someone who has chrones or colitis.  I was never given any information about how to adjust eating habits after JIB but very shortly after my surgery I met someone who had hers before me.  She was anorexic-looking and had mono.  I made a decision at that time to eat to ensure I get nutrients in.  Dump and eat, dump and eat.  Lots of veggies and lots of supplements.  Unfortunately the bloating and gas and smelly 'poops' are part of it but I'd rather be healthier and fat than what this other lady was.  Another odd final comment.  For the past year I have had a problem breathing.  The distended tummy pushes on the lungs.  If you think you have asthma discuss this organ-crowding issue with your doctor as a possibility.  I would have had mine reversed but I had an incisional hernia repair where they inserted a mesh webbing.  The reversal would not be laparoscopic.  It would be the full open version and because of this damn mesh the risks are too high.  Even though I consulted with the hernia surgeon about an upcoming reversal, he assured me there would be no complications.   One thing that's come out of this is an inherent distrust of the med profession!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I so agree . I wish the medical profession would have told m e to stay connected with them.  I had to stay around for 6 months and then I was on my own.  " I have recently tried to connect with the hospital where it was done bu no one calls back.  A scary feeling to say the least.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Yes. I am out here and really glad to connect with others who have had that particular surgery.I was 25 yrs old when i had the surgery in 1975 Portland Oregon. All went well for years and lost 110 lbs, Danced it off. Worked and starved myself.  I have gained back about 60 lbs and have held that weight for 30 yr's. but Slowly became weaker, loss of energy etc. The malnutrition has taken its tole.  I no have nutritional IVs twice a month , b12 shots daily, thyroid problems, etc. The IV is a life saver.  I go to a natural path Dr (ND)
Having some counseling to help me handle the down times.  Some depression. I am scared and feel so alone with all this that is going on . Thinking of reconnecting but probably won't. I wish you all the best in your struggles to live  and enjoy life . It is very hard sometimes. I try to notice the MOMENTS of happiness in a day- a bird, my grandchild's laugh, color, the sky etc.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I had the intesional bypass surgery when I was 11 now I am 49 and have alot of problems..I weiged 240 and had the surgery in 1978...I suffer from Bipolar disorder and severe depression, also vitiam definecy, constapation, Since I had the surgery I have bladder problems...I went from 240 to 125 and had a terrible time cause I looked sick in which I was. I have seen a psychiarst all my life since the surery...I  did not gain weight  till I was put on Seraqel I went from 125 to 190...Since I quit taking seraqel I have been losing weight I now weigh 168...I know how everyone feels who had this surgery Even though I have alot of problems now but if I did not have it I was heading for a stroke...I have Bells Palsey since that surgery...John Hemmer done my surgery here in KY he has passed since then....God Bless everyone....and have a Merry Christmas....
.......Tracy
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I had the intesional bypass surgery when I was 11 now I am 49 and have alot of problems..I weiged 240 and had the surgery in 1978...I suffer from Bipolar disorder and severe depression, also vitiam definecy, constapation, Since I had the surgery I have bladder problems...I went from 240 to 125 and had a terrible time cause I looked sick in which I was. I have seen a psychiarst all my life since the surery...I  did not gain weight  till I was put on Seraqel I went from 125 to 190...Since I quit taking seraqel I have been losing weight I now weigh 168...I know how everyone feels who had this surgery Even though I have alot of problems now but if I did not have it I was heading for a stroke...I have Bells Palsey since that surgery...John Hemmer done my surgery here in KY he has passed since then....God Bless everyone....and have a Merry Christmas....
.......Tracy
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
My name is Nicholas and my mother is being treated in hospital now for dehydration and a bacterial infection in her intestines.

She had the JIB procedure done when she was 23 in 1975 for weight control. Since then, she has developed severe arthritis, recurring oxelate kidney stones, mineral deficincies, fatigue and chronic loose bowel movements. It has been getting progressively worse to the point where she has trouble eating by getting full very quickly and experiences severe gas and bloating 24/7. I finally think enough is enough and have begun the search for a JIB reversal. I found a doctor at Beth Israel in NY, Dr. Elliot Goodman who is a bariatric surgeon who is capable of performing the surgery and who is encouraging it. My mother does not have medical insurance and the procedure would

cost between 20-25,000. Any help out there or other ideas ?

Hope this helps.



Nick Cullen

Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hello I also had the JIB in 1978. Did very well up until the last 2 years. I lost a lot of weight and kept it off until the last 2 years I have gained aprox 80lbs and suffer from alot of constapation and acid reflux. I have a lot of joint pain and body aches. I never had this surgery revrsed and would be afraid to.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
My husband had JIB in 1979.He lost 150 lbs in 1 year and experienced psychological side effects along with kidney stones, reactive arthritis due to bacteria growth in the blind loop,malnutrition due to malabsorption, inability to absorb vitamins or nutrients or antibiotics when needed to treat infection, hard to manage diarrhea due to "dumping syndrome". He was advised to look into reversal by rheumatologist in 2007. Hoping that a reversal would give him a better quality of life, my husband underwent surgery to reverse the JIB. Unfortunately, the poor condition of the bypassed intestine, his state of malnutrition, ensuing infections with a prolonged stay in ICU on a ventilator were more than his body could handle and we lost him 3 months later after a good fight. I still say, WHAT IF a reversal was done many years before, before the severe damage to his body, he may still be here enjoying his grandchildren. This surgery was banned due to its mortality rate and significant side effects, yet the "victims" of JIB were not counseled to undergo reversal--in my husband's case, it was too late. I am deeply disappointed in the medical community.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I had jejunoileal bypass surgery in 1990.  I now have diabetes, cataracts for the last 10 years and non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver. I am 57 years old.  My quality of life never reached what was promised by the doctors since I was usually battling some complication from the original surgery.  I'm not sure that reversal at this time in my life is an option or if there would be enough benefit to compensate for the risks of major surgery. I have picked up some good advice from this column and welcome any further advice from anyone who wants to share.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I am 55, and have just found this site!  I'm excited to find all of you!  I had ilieo-cecal bypass 1-15-76.  I went from 385lbs to 165lbs in 18 mos.  I have not been reversed, and have been told by young Dr.s that there was no such surgery.  I had a hysterectomy due to lose of connective tissue causing a uterine prolapse.(1981) and a year later I had a rectal prolapse.  I still have "dumping syndrome".  I also have lesions on my pancreas,leftg kidney, and my liver, along with vitamin deficencies(A, B,D, K).
Because of the reconstruction proceedure used on the rectal prolapse, my current specialist does not want to do a takedown of the bypass.  He believes I could suffer worse complications.  I also suffer from the distended abdomen, and chronic fatigue.  I have had a difficult time finding a Dr. that knows anything about these types of surgeries as most of the young ones were not trained about them, and my dr.s that did the surgeries are no longer in practice, or dead. I have found out alot by searching Intestinal or jejunoileal bypass syndrome.
AS A SIDE NOTE:  Did you know that many hospitals and clinics do not keep your medical records over 10 years.  Make sure you get copies of ALL your records. especially if you have had multiple surgeries.  I just completed some excruciating tests in order to re-establish my medical history after all these years, as I, and my primary care provider, lost my old records when our community flooded  2 years ago.
,
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
DON'T HAVE WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH.   HAVE HAD
DIFFERENT THINGS IN MY LIFE TIME BUT THEY ON THE MOST
PART ARE HEREDITARY (CATARACTS) RUN IN MY FAMILY.
NOW MY MOST TRYING PROBLEM IN THE ANEMIA BY THE
LOW KIDNEY FUNCTION.  HOPE THE DR. WILL GET IT UNDER
CONTROL AS I DO FEEL WEAKER AND MORE TIRED THAN
USUAL, MAYBE THAT IS WHAT A 72 YR. OLD IS SUPPOSE TO FEEL..
I HOPE YOU CONDITION IMPROVES.

MS1000001
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hello I had the JI in 1977 and now find I get a lot of bypass enteritis -I'm on codeine phosphate and questran thrice daily and metronidazole for the first five days of every month - but am not winning - does any one else have this problem
Helpful - 0
2
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Gastroenterology Community

Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Learn which OTC medications can help relieve your digestive troubles.
Is a gluten-free diet right for you?
Discover common causes of and remedies for heartburn.
This common yet mysterious bowel condition plagues millions of Americans
Don't get burned again. Banish nighttime heartburn with these quick tips
Get answers to your top questions about this pervasive digestive problem