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CF Fundoplication and G-tube? Should we do this for our 13?

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Cystic Fibrosis
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Posted 8/17/2012 1:27 PM (GMT -8)

Our daughter is 13 and right now a Fundoplication for her acid reflux is on the table and a g-tube for feeding to get her BMI up.  Has anyone had this done to improve their quality of life with CF?  Our daughters first symptom when she was a baby was reflux with a cough.  She has had testing done recently that indicates it is at a high level and her team of Dr.s think in could be negatively impacting her lung function.  As for the feeding tube, she regularly struggles to keep her weight up and her BMI fluctuates, she is currently at a 22%BMI.  Any positive feedback regarding these procedures would be greatly appreciated. 

Mom of 3 girls, one with CF.

Posted 8/18/2012 4:40 AM (GMT -8)
3chicks, at one time I was totally against feeding tubes for children. Then I had the opportunity to be with children who had various disabilities every day over a long period. My mind was completely changed when I saw how much better the children did after surgery. Constant reflux and aspiration is painful, but kiddos can't tell us what's wrong because they've never known normal. I've seen children not only gain weight, but blossom socially from the procedure.

The fundoplication is usually a pretty benign procedure and can be really life-changing. The g-tube (I assume after healing is complete they would change out for a button which is less bulky and obvious under clothing) is an easily reversed procedure if it's no longer needed.

Only you can make this decision for her, but I've seen many good things come from it. Hope that will help with your decision.
Posted 8/21/2012 7:38 AM (GMT -8)
3 members of our family had the fundoplication with excellent results for the last 15 years. I don't know how it affects CF, we all had Barrett's Esophagus.
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