habits. In these cases contrast swallow imaging will demonstrate the problem. Often simply forming a gastropexy to the remaining omentum to fix the sleeve in a satisfactory position will help. Occasional patients may develop ‘functional failure’. This term describes people experiencing dysphagia, or lack of emptying of the sleeve. Nuclear medicine studies may demonstrate extremely slow emptying, despite an anatomically normal sleeve. Even though a sleeve gastrectomy is irreversible, patients with symptoms relating to these problems still can be helped. Consensus among bariatric surgeons is that many patients with sleeve related problems do extremely well with a conversion to a roux-en-y gastric bypass. This involves dividing the top portion of the sleeve and attaching a small bowel limb to it, thus providing a low-pressure outlet for the gastric acid. A conversion to a gastric bypass is likely to cure the reflux in the vast majority of patients. General Hea lth Many patients may not have been left feeling fully satisfied following their primary procedure, whether due to lack of weight loss or problematic symptoms. There are solutions to almost every problem. Patients whom feel they have to live with disturbing symptoms affecting the quality of life should be reassured that we can do things to improve their wellbeing. pm HOW HEALTHY IS YOUR HEART? The best way to detect early Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is to have a coronary calcium score scan, a painless examination using a CT scanner to image and measure the amount of calcium in the walls of your coronary arteries. At least 25% of Australians who have a heart attack have no prior symptoms. Many heart attacks can be prevented by early diagnosis and treatment of the conditions that contribute to the attack. CT Calcium Scoring is the most accurate screening test for your individual heart attack risk. South Coast Radiology at Pindara Hospital provides this screening test for $175 SOUTH COAST RADIOLOGY ALLCHURCH AVENUE, BENOWA PHONE: 5597 0677 www.scr.com.au Who should have a Calcium Scoring scan? Calcium Scoring is usually suggested for males, 45 years or older, and for females aged 55 and over. However your Doctor is the best person to advise if this study is suitable for you. A referral from your Doctor is required. Moderate CAD Advanced CAD
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Four
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