Intragastric Balloons: Weight Loss Surgery Alternative
Intragastric Balloons: Weight Loss Surgery Alternative
Intragastric Balloons Explained
Intragastric Balloons (IGB) is an oval shape balloon, made from silicone, that are inserted into the stomach with a wire and that are connected with a flexible shaft to keep them in place. The procedure is endoscopically and after the balloons are inserted they are filled with saline and methylene blue solution using a pump. After the balloons are in place the procedure takes approximately 14 minutes to complete. The balloons, like Orbera, ReShape Duo, and Obalon, are left in place for approximately 6 months and then emptied and removed. Spatz3 balloons are made to stay in the stomach for up to a year with an option to adjust the volume of the balloon.
Goals of Procedure
During the entire process of using the intragastric balloon, the patients are typically counseled on diet and exercise to improve their post lifestyle changes. The goal of the process is to allow the patients to lose the excess weight and help them learn how to best keep off the weight after the procedure. It is a temporary procedure that is completely reversible. It is considered to be an excellent alternative to the weight loss surgeries intended for those that fit the criteria.
Study Information
In a study conducted by Dr. Rodriguez Lopez from the Bariatric Surgery program with Hamilton Medical Center of Dalton, Georgia, individuals with a body mass index of between 30 and 40 were given the dual intragastric balloon (ReShape Duo) and a diet and exercise plan. These individuals lost approximately 25% of their overall excess body weight. This was compared to 11% of individuals that went through a sham procedure with diet and exercise. These results show that the dual intragastric balloon had the best results for those individuals that needed it. The studies show that these individuals had a 2.2 greater loss of weight than simple diet and exercise.
The patients that participated sustained approximately 65% weight loss at the 48-week mark following the procedure. This is an impressive result for those in need of the surgery and who want the weight loss, but can’t seem to reach it on their own with exercise and diet.
Indications for Participation
The typical indications for use of the intragastric balloon procedure include being between 18 and 60 years of age, having a body mass index of over 35 and being a candidate for weight loss surgery, being between 30 and 39 BMI with significant health risks related to the obesity, having a history of failure to maintain a healthy weight, GI tract congenital or anomalies, not being pregnant, having no addiction to drugs or alcohol, having no previous bariatric surgery, adhesive peritonitis, or intestinal obstructions, and having no history of chronic or high use of NSAID or aspirin. Individuals should not have Crohn’s disease or gastric ulcers, should not have mental retardations or difficulty making major health-related decisions.
While weight loss surgery is useful for many in attaining a healthy weight, weight loss surgeries are not the right choice for everyone. There are some alternatives to weight loss surgery that can help you get the very best weight. Intragastric balloons are an excellent option for those that fit the criteria. It is a temporary and reversible procedure that provides a basis for obtaining and maintaining a healthy weight. This gives those not wanting the long-term surgery or looking for something less invasive. Individuals should discuss this option with their physicians beforehand and understand all of the risks and benefits.
Related:
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New Generation of Obalon Gastric Balloon System
Gastric Balloon Weight Management