NSAIDS GEL

I made an error in a recent post regarding an NSAIDS gel that my PCP had recommended for my bad knee.  I had said it was "Lovenox" but it is really "Voltaren".  It is applied topically, to the site of the pain (in my case my knee) so it bypasses the RNY pouch and thus avoids the problem if ulcers at a surgical site.  I recommend it!  Expensive, but works!

Sorry for the earlier error.

Bypassing the pouch doesn't prevent the problem of ulcers.  NSAIDS don't cause ulcers when they come in contact with the pouch.  When they enter the bloodstream, it causes the lining of the pouch, and remnant stomach, to thin.  That's why you can get ulcers if you take NSAIDS by injection or IV.

I have always understood that the problem with NSAIDs is absorption via the blood stream and that the risk arises from any use, ingested or topical. Certainly if you are making sure you take a safe dose, ou cannot use gels etc at the same time as tablets as they both count towards the overall intake.

I also understand that bypassed people are at the same risk of ulcers as the general population but that they are much harder to treat and so more serious after RNY. 

But I am not a doctor! And I am not bypassed!

Voltaren should still not be used. Topical still goes into the bloodstream, which is why it helps and can cause ulcers. 

Thanks for this info - NSAID use is between an individual and their doctor.

Many RNY'ers take NSAIDS on an as needed basis (I am not one of them as I have no need, but if this situation changed, I would certainly consider using this!)

Yes, looking at what I wrote, I didn't make that clear. As Kim says, some people need NSAIDs after bypass surgery with their doctor's agreement. I just meant that it should not be assumed that because a gel is not swallowed, it has any less effect on things like stomach lining. I wasn't saying don't use it if that is what your doctor told you to use!