CalKev

I was at OCC on June 30 and took a tour of the dental suite. It is located on your left as you walk down the hall to the fill-floroscopy room. Appearance is like OCC itself - state of the art. A fee schedule is available upon request from reception.

July 1, 2007 - A local hospital has joined a nationwide study aimed at helping obese teenagers. With childhood obesity such a major problem, serious tactics usually used for adults are getting a close look. At the duPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, Delaware, the LapBand is now being tested for obese teens. The LapBand is an alternative to gastric bypass, or stomach stapling. It's surgically slipped around the stomach, and then the band is inflated with saline solution. "It restricts the amount of food in the stomach, with a pouch about the size of an egg. The stomach is about the size of a football right now, and we try to reduce it," explained Dr. Kirk Reichard. Unlike gastric bypass, it doesn't change the absorption of nutrients from food and it can be deflated in case the person later needs to gain weight due to pregnancy or a medical condition. "For reasons we don't understand, a patient's hunger really goes away. Their desire to eat goes away when the band is properly adjusted," he said. Doctors say they are looking for severely obese teens, suffering the effects of excess weight, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. "The adolescents we're talking about have 100 to 150 pounds to lose," said Dr. George Datto. The duPont team is not only working with the teens, but also their families to boost the chance of long-term success. Their method of adjusting eating habits is geared specifically to teens. "Instead of telling them what to do, we have them sort of figuring it out on their own," said nutritionist Mitchell Fullmer. DuPont is one of four hospitals nationwide studying the LapBand. Doctors are very hopeful. A recent study showed teens develop half the complications that adults do from weight loss surgery. (Copyright 2007 by Action News and 6abc. All Rights Reserved.)

June 24, 2007 On Her Weigh Lisa Manger takes first step in journey to shed pounds By ANNE GEGGIS Staff Writer The News-Journal is following the story of Lisa Manger, who had Lap-Band surgery to help her lose weight. This is the third in an occasional series.Weighty matters had been propelling Lisa Manger onto her scale almost daily since a surgical procedure May 30 made her stomach 90 percent smaller -- so the first official weigh-in was anticlimactic for her. But for Diane Allen, who's been supporting Manger ever since she started trying to reduce nearly 18 months ago, the scale's unblinking 318.4 -- showing a total of 12 pounds lost -- set off Allen's cheers, which Manger joined in on. "Wonderful," said Allen, a dietician at Halifax Medical Center's Weight Management program who monitors dieting patients, describing Manger's progress. Two weeks after her Lap-Band surgery, Manger, in fact, was at the top of her class. Among the first three patients to get the new procedure at the area's largest hospital, weight loss ranges from 8 pounds to Manger's 12. It's only the first step on a long journey. Manger said she wants to reduce enough to get into a size 16 -- from her current 28-30 size. And then maintain that for life. She had the surgery, she says, because previous diets have failed and she needs help getting to a weight that would allow her to join a profession that could require a lot of time on her feet: nursing. The reversible, surgical alteration to her stomach size came from having a Lap-Band implanted in her stomach. The band's constricting powers mean that it takes less food to fill her up. But the surgery has its costs and risks -- and the aftermath basically requires patients to give up normal eating habits. As she waited to be wheeled into the operating room last month, Manger was philosophical. "I might as well get food out of my head -- I'm not going to have any for a long time," she said. A growing army of morbidly obese Americans is seeking bariatric surgery to solve a condition that a 2003 study for the Centers for Disease Control says accounts for 9.1 percent of the nation's health care costs. The 177,600 bariatric surgeries done in 2006 represent nearly a 1,000 percent increase in the surgery since it was introduced in 1992, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Bariatric surgery, when it was first introduced, was known as gastric bypass, in which the stomach and intestines were permanently altered. Celebrities such as Roseanne Barr, Carnie Wilson, Al Roker, and Sharon Osborne have joined the parade of those who shaped up through surgery. The Food and Drug Administration in 2001 added the Lap-Band to the surgical options for those trying to find a way out of obesity. And it seems to be the more popular option in this area. While 76 have undergone gastric bypass since 2004 when Halifax Medical Center began offering it, Florida Hospital Memorial has already matched that number with Lap-Band in less than two years. Industry projections show the Lap-Band is projected to grow from 15 percent of all bariatric surgery to account for 20 to 25 percent, while traditional gastric bypasses are projected to decrease or increase just slightly, said Dr. Neil Hutcher, past president of the metabolic and bariatric surgery society. Some of the area's insurers haven't been so quick to follow along in covering Lap-Band surgery that costs about $16,000. Medicare introduced its bariatric surgery coverage in November 2005 -- allowing the surgery at designated "centers of excellence" of which there are none in Volusia or Flagler counties. Most of Humana's group policies don't cover it, unless a special rider has been purchased. And Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Florida doesn't cover it either. A spokesman cited safety reasons. Dr. Stephen Levine, who has performed 75 Lap-Band surgeries at Florida Hospital Ormond Memorial, said that about 50 percent of his patients have insurance for the surgery, a significant increase since he started the hospital's program. Insurance companies' reluctance, he said, is easy to understand -- even though the surgery makes it less likely the patient will need costly treatment for diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure in the future. "We know it will save money," he said. "But in all likelihood you will be with a different insurance company in a couple of years." Manger, who works at a behavioral health facility, is grateful that the cost of the surgery isn't an issue for her. A $525 bariatric surgery fee is all that she had to pay, so far. Within a few hours, she went from surgery to the recovery room to a hospital room for an overnight stay. She was up and walking around before evening. "I feel like I've done a thousand sit-ups," she said.

Kathy, Thanks for the question on spam. There are always spammers that slip through the account confirmation process. Spam is deleted as quickly as possible. Restrictions are also placed on the spammers ability to post more spam with their account. Kevin

Donna, I checked your account and there are no restrictions involved with moderation. I can tell you that Lori informed me yesterday that the board is going through a software update and this may be the cause of the trouble with logging in. A copy of your post has been sent to Lori so it can be addressed comprehensively.

Katjab, Thanks for your response! I think you have a valid point about the growing public consciousness and acceptance of the LB as a safe tool for healthier living. Rick Dees (radio Host) asked me to describe the procedure, was it reversible, would I reverse it, was there lots of pain, and how fast recovery was. He was also convinced that "controlling eating habits" was the main benefit. We also discussed that genetics has a significant role in ones reason for being obese. My hope it is not a "fad" and innovators continue to develop this tool for living.

Hello Bandsters! I was listening to Movin 93.9 radio out of Los Angeles this morning. Rick Dees is the host and he was talking about the Lap Band and how his niece wanted one. He also has a new sponsor that is a clinic in LA doing the procedure. I grabbed the phone because well its my favorite subject. He interviewed me on the air concerning the procedure and I did mention Dr. Ortiz. The catch is we were on delay and the Dr. Ortiz comment got cut probably in deference to his sponsor. The rest of the segment which seemed like 60 seconds was aired within about 2 minutes afterwards. I remember when no one had heard of the Lap Band and now DJ's are talking it up. Advertising competition has become fierce now that these specialty practices are popping up throughout the country. Very interesting trend to watch.

(HealthNewsDigest.com) - HOUSTON

By First Coast News Staff JACKSONVILLE, FL -- The FDA is conducting an adolescent lap band trial that provides free lap band surgeries for overweight teenagers in five states, including Florida. There will be 25 surgeries in each state. Usually Insurance companies do not cover this type of surgery for teenagers under the age of 18. The FDA is now giving free lap band surgeries to teens under 18 to see how effective they can really be. The idea is to possibly turn insurance companies around to pay for these lap band surgeries in children 14 to 17 years old. The FDA is looking for adolescents to participate in the lap band study; each participant will get a lap band surgery at no cost. If anyone is interested in applying, contact JACKSONVILLE SURGICAL ASSOCIATES the number is 904-399-4004. Ask for Jody Debord. To be accepted in the study, teens have to be between the ages of 14 and 17 and they have to be at least 100 pounds overweight. Created: 6/15/2007 4:19:37 PM Updated: 6/15/2007 4:56:43 PM

Lori, Awesome! 65 inches! Congratulations on your success! Kevin

Hello Fellow Bandsters! Here are some numbers from my phone that have come in handy. Do you have any to add? Tijuana Tourist Info Tijuauna Visitor's Information Center 01152-664-685-2210 State Secretariat of Tourism of Baja California 01152-664-973-0424 Tijuana Border Crossing Conditions 1-619-690-8999 Tranport to Border on U.S. Side From San Diego San Diego Trolley's Blue Line 1-800-266-6883 Border Parking Border Station Parking / Secure place to park. 1-619-428-1422 Mexicoach Shuttle / Transport to Central TJ from Border Station Parking - Transport from TJ to Border & then to Border Station Parking. Departs every 30 minutes / 7$ roundtrip per person / Mexicoach terminal in TJ is a 5$ cab ride from OCC and so is the border, But the bus takes you directly to the border crossing station and you pass quickly where a cab takes you to the walk-thru entrance. Also on days there are delays it is much better sitting in an air conditioned bus than standing in the hot sun waiting for entrance to the border crossing station. 1-619-428-9517 Drive Across the Border Baja-Mex Auto Insurance 1-800-300-6394 Bob Baker Ford Auto Rental - For Driving Into Mexico 1-619-297-3106

Donna, You are right! This travel update specifically deals with "Air Travel" in to and out of Mexico for which you did need a passport and now this regulation has been rescinded due to the backlog in passport applications.

The U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security announced today that U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda who have applied for but not yet received passports can nevertheless temporarily enter and depart from the United States by air with a government issued photo identification and Department of State official proof of application for a passport through September 30, 2007. The federal government is making this accommodation for air travel due to longer than expected processing times for passport applications in the face of record-breaking demand.

He is the surgeon and will choose for you. Congratulations on your banding!

Judy, Thank you for being open to this "guys" point of view. It's so great when your spouse is supportive. You are very fortunate. Get on that plane and take care of business! Have a very safe flight and keep us updated to how things go in the coming days. I'm excited for you! You are not alone. We are all a click away at the OCC Inet Access Center. I wish every day of my life could be as productive as that single day is at OCC. You got it made! Kevin

Hi Judy, I'm not a "Lady" but wanted to jump in on the topic. The toughest part is over. Making the decision to be banded is the changing point. Life is only going to get better and you will feel good about yourself. You have plenty of courage to go this far and this choice will amplify your quality of life. You are not alone in how you feel. Most of us feel or have felt as you do. The key is you are resolute to make your food habits manageable. The band will empower you to deconstruct obsessive behavior that has sabotaged you in the past. Your banding experience will also change your heart and view of your life. Be open to the teaching to come and use that strong determination to make "you" a priority. No one can do this for you... its all you and you will succeed!

Pam, So sorry this happened to you and to someone so close to you and also so glad you have your feet on the ground. You are right this is a good lesson for all of us. If addiction doesn't get you one way it will try to suck you into its vicious circle in another. It is a potent and self-destructive power that never should be taken without due consideration. No matter who you are until you admit you are "Addicted" to food you will never be able to take in hand your thoughts and the addiction. Whenever I eat a meal an inner voice questions me saying "Are you eating to support the addiction or to live a balanced life?" I will always be a food addict in the same way an alcoholic needs alcohol. It is a day by day process where I have to hold myself accountable for my actions. No it isn't easy but it is worth it to save my life. Only when addiction is appraised in your mind as self destruction can one have the opportunity to choose life. You sound like a friend we would all be fortunate to have!

Each of the kinds of rooms we offer include the following amenities:

Judy, First stop stressing for your own peace of mind. You are probably adding to your chances of keeping your ailment by do so. You want to be as close to %100 as possible for surgery and recovery. I am aware of a lapbander who had surgery in the states (not associated with Dr.Ortiz in any way). She had a cold. They put her on a ventilator to bring up her oxygen levels for surgery. She ended up in the hospital in recovery for a week as she developed pneumonia. If I was sick before surgery I would decide for myself not to go through with it until I was well. So forget the stress. Get better ASAP. Drink lots of water, sleep well, and take your vitamins. Sit outside in the sun too. Getting some good sunlight and oxygen is a real plus. I loved the process of surgery personally because I knew I was in the best hands possible at OCC. Keep us informed of your progress. To your good health!

Steve, Thought I would jump in and suggest a call to OCC. Especially if it is around your port site area. Sure wouldn't hurt to ask. Hope all is well and you just pulled a muscle that hasn't been used in awhile per your inference.

Sanjay, The VG band is specifically used for those of us that have accumulation fat around the portion of the digestive tract where the band is to be placed. As we lose weight these cells also decrease in size and decrease pressure on the effected area so to continue having good restriction additional fills of solution are needed. The amount of the fill should be determined by the physician. Medications a person takes can have an effect on how much restriction is in place and should be discussed with your doctor each time you go in for a fill as prescriptions change. This is not to convince you to have or not have surgery. You need to be well informed before surgery. Remember most on the board are "in process" of obtaining their weight goals. The many who have completed the process may not get involved in discussion here as they feel their interests are no longer germane to discussion.

Greg, I have to admit I drink diet coke almost daily. I consume about 12 oz a day. As we head into the summer months its nice to have some on hand in the fridge. I drink it slooooooooowwllyyy. I take a drink and almost (I know this may sound gross to some) swish it around my mouth like mouthwash to get as much carbonation out of it before swallowing and to basically enjoy that tingling cold in my mouth. Then I just swallow a bit at a time until my mouth is empty. I rarely burp or feel fullness from it because I'll wait another 10 to 20 minutes before taking another drink. Also having it on ice in a glass seems to help as it dilutes it and diminishes the carbonation. After that being said it may not be to ones advantage to drink carbonated fluids. One report I saw indicated that the gas in the carbonation works against you by pushing outward on your little pouch stomach when it enters and can dilate it making it larger. This is hearsay but sounds very credible.

By Anne Harding Wed May 2, 12:29 PM ET NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - After having "lap band" surgery for weight loss, men and women show large increases in sensitivity to the blood-sugar-regulating hormone insulin -- even if they remain obese -- a new study shows. "They don't have to reach their ideal weight in order to make some pretty significant health improvements," Dr. Joan F. Carroll of the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth, one of the study's authors, told Reuters Health. Carroll reported the findings this week at the American Physiological Society's annual meeting in Washington, DC. In the operation Carroll and her team are investigating, known medically as laparoscopic gastric banding surgery, an elastic band is placed around the stomach, restricting the amount of food the stomach can comfortably hold. Another procedure, surgical gastric bypass, has been shown to help reduce the body's resistance to insulin -- often a prelude to full-blown diabetes -- before major weight loss has taken place, but less is known about how lap band surgery affects insulin resistance. To investigate, Carroll and her team have been following 37 lap band patients for up to one year. Those followed for six months have lost 23 kilograms (51 pounds), on average, while average weight loss for those who have been followed for a year is 34 kg (75 pounds). Their level of insulin resistance had fallen by 60 percent after six months, she told Reuters Health, even though the patients remained clinically obese. Given that resistance to insulin greatly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which has a number of other health consequences including heart disease and even amputations, "over the long term it's really a benefit for all the body systems," Carroll said.

Annette, You have my admiration. You are focused and keeping perspective even when barraged by your peers. Everytime they bring it up take it as a compliment. It truly is. Most hate to see others change because they feel trapped somehow themselves. Keep on reinventing yourself it only leads to a better life from my experience. Thank you for your frankness and your story of overcoming adversity! Good stuff! Helps us all! Kevin

Rachelle, This may sound off base and totally crazy but throw the "fat" clothes out. Trash them or take them to a charity. Buy new clothes that fit you "now" and go from there. Try a new start. It may hurt the wallet but it may help you move "forward" in your mind. Don't buy duplicates of the fat clothes go to different stores and try new things. Take the energy in the shame and turn it on its head. Feel good about yourself. We all need to feel happy and positive about ourselves to succeed in our lapband life process. Congratulations... and I mean it. You have come so far. Not everyone gets as far as you have. I have been in a plateau since December, 2006, and even put on some weight recently on a vacation. That is life. It's living. That is a fact. I chose the consequences and I am happy