Intragastric Balloon
weight loss of 10-15% of excess body weight within the first six months
The intragastric balloon is a weight-loss procedure designed to provide short-term therapy for people who are very overweight.
Average weight loss of 10-15% of excess body weight within the first six months, with potential for additional weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes.
Why it’s done
The use of an intragastric balloon can aid in weight loss, which in turn may help reduce the risk of various serious health conditions linked to excess weight, such as:
- Certain types of cancer, including breast, endometrial, and prostate cancer.
- Cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure).
- Elevated cholesterol levels.
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or its more severe form, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
- Obstructive sleep apnea.
- Type 2 diabetes.
Typically, an intragastric balloon and other weight-loss interventions are considered only after individuals have attempted to manage their weight through dietary improvements and increased physical activity.
- Placement: The balloon is inserted through the mouth and gullet (oesophagus) while you’re under sedation. It’s then filled with liquid, partially filling the stomach and creating a feeling of fullness. This helps change your eating pattern and reduces the volume of food you consume, making you feel full quicker.
- Duration: The maximum time an intragastric balloon can remain in place is 6 months, after which it must be removed.
- Commitment: It’s essential to follow the dietary and lifestyle advice provided during this period. The intragastric balloon works best when used properly, alongside a low-calorie diet and close contact with your health professional team.
- Dietary Changes: Initially, your meals will consist of 2-3 tablespoons of pureed foods. You’ll gradually progress to a soft, mushy, and crispy diet, eventually returning to a normal textured diet. Avoid fizzy drinks, eat slowly, cut food into small pieces, and chew well. Snacking between meals should be avoided, and you should stop eating as soon as you feel full.
- Benefits: The procedure helps achieve short-term weight loss and reduces health-related problems such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, hypertension (high blood pressure), and coronary heart disease.
- Less invasive than surgical procedures like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy
- Temporary and reversible option
- Promotes significant weight loss with lifestyle modifications
Common Side Effects
- Nausea and vomiting (30-50%)
- Abdominal discomfort or pain (20-30%)
- Gastroesophageal reflux (10-20%)
- Gastric ulcers (5-10%)
Rare Side Effects
- Balloon migration or deflation (<1%)
- Gastric perforation (<1%)
- Bowel obstruction (<1%)
- Pancreatitis (<1%)