Bariatric Surgery & Ileostomy: What to Consider

Question
Hello,

My dad has an ileostomy bag and also needs to lost a large amount of weight.  He had a stroke after his ileostomy surgery which makes exercising difficult due to partial paralysis.  So, I am wondering if it is possible to have gastric bypass or lapband surgery with an ileostomy.  He spoke to one doctor who said no because of bacterial issues.  Please let me know.

Answer
Katie,
I think it is marginally acceptable to place a Band in a patient with an ostomy, but I think most surgeons would agree it the least desirable option of the available bariatric procedures because of possible bacterial contamination.

On the other hand, the gastric bypass and the gastric sleeve are quite tolerant of infection and I would not rule them out on the basis of the ostomy.

Best of luck,
Dr JP