need info on a Mn surgeon

I am hoping to have a duodenal switch done by Dr Henry Buchwald at the U of MN.  Does anyone know if he has a minimum BMI for this type of WLS?  I am about 43 BMI with
Sever Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

I don't know the answer to your questions but wanted to let you know that I had a very generic question before I decided on a surgeon and found a link on their website to e-mail them.  They responded very promptly and seemed quite nice in their reply.

Best of luck to you!

I know people who've had DS with him who had lower BMIs like yours.  I don't think he has any minimum BMI.  I had a high starting BMI but I'd still pick DS and Dr. B if I were going to have surgery today. He's phenomenal and the DS is wonderful too.  Good luck!

Thanks for the response!  I am feeling so much better about the DS and Dr Buchwald!  And congrats on your weight loss!  You are doing great, I've been lurking on this site for weeks!
Mary

I have 2 friends who have had him do it at a BMI of 40 and 42. 

Make sure your insurance company covers it at the BMI. I know there is some out there that want your BMI over 50

I thought I read somehting about the BMI needing to be 50 or above...this is making me nervous.
When I called the insurance company, I got 2 different answers from 2 different people.  I am going to my first consult on March 18th...we will find out then I suppose.

thanks
Mary

We have many Dr. Buchwald DS patients here in MN and many with BMI's lower than 50. 50 is a typical requirement of BCBS of MN. If that is your insurance, it can be appealed and WON! I'm living proof!

Join us on the DS forum on this website for more DS related information!

I am thinking your insurance might say BMI 50 or higher, like Diamond Girl said.  Crappy Medica only covers it for 55 and over.  But I am almost positive Buchwald thinks DS is fine even for lower BMIs.