Gastric Balloon (Intragastric Balloon)
The intragastric balloon is a non-surgical procedure which is performed under anaesthetic. A balloon-like device is inserted into the stomach using an endoscope (which is inserted through the mouth), and is then filled with saline. The procedure takes only half an hour.
The intragastric balloon can only be used for a maximum of 6 months and then must be removed in the same way it was placed.
Who is this procedure suited to?
For temporary use, only in super-morbidly obese people (BMI >50) to allow them to reduce their weight to a point where they become eligible for other weight loss procedures. In some cases, mildly overweight people utilise this procedure for temporary weight loss.
Advantages:
- Non-surgical.
- Provides a weight loss option for people who are not eligible for surgery.
- Can be a temporary option for people in the lower BMI ranges.
- Has been shown to cause temporary 13-24kg weight loss in 6 months.
Disadvantages:
- Weight regain is common once the balloon is removed.
- There is a small risk the balloon may be damaged requiring removal. A blue dye is placed inside the balloon which indicates if the balloon is damaged.
- A small number of patients cannot continue more than a few days with intragastric balloons due to nausea and vomiting.
Gastric Balloon
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