Question:
Surgeons experience with lap vs open

My surgeon has done a little over 60 procedures for WLS. However, he has been doing other LAP procedures for many years (gallblader, liver, etc.). He trained with a wonderful WLS doctor for 1 1/2yr to "purfect" the RNY. I have alot of confidence in Dr., however, should I be concerned about him not doing more than 100 RNY's? The doctor he trained under is out of state (too far from me). Any suggestions or am I just being nervous? Many thanks!    — Deborah F. (posted on November 7, 2001)

November 7, 2001
The "inside" work of a RNY surgery is exactly the same, whether performed laparascopically or open. Any qualified surgeon can learn the technical skill to perform the actual RNY, but it takes extensive training and a certain natural skill to be a good laparascopic surgeon. It sounds as if you have a qualified surgeon who has taken an interest and the time involved to learn the skills involved with laparascopy. If he has performed multiple other lap procedures in his career, as well as having trained with a bariatric surgeon, I would feel confident with his ability to perform your RNY even though his "numbers" for that particular procedure are somewhat low. I would feel less confident if his total number of lap surgeries, of every type, measured less than 100 :-) Good luck!
   — Diana T.

November 7, 2001
I wouldnt worry about it. He has lots of overall experience, and thats a wonderful thing.
   — bob-haller