The intragastric balloon is a temporary treatment for obese patients and has been available since the 1980s. During gastric balloon surgery, a balloon is inserted into the stomach via the mouth and inflated to reduce the capacity of the stomach. According to the British Obesity Surgery Patient Association, studies show that average weight loss after gastric balloon surgery is between 25 percent and 44 percent of total body weight.
The Balloon
The balloon used in gastric balloon surgery weighs less than 30 g and is made of a soft silicone material. The balloon may either be filled with fluid or air, though fluid-filled balloons are more commonly used. A 2010 article published in "Obesity Surgery" found that the safety and efficacy of fluid and air-filled gastric balloons were comparable. According to the lead author, M.L. Decastro, "Both balloons achieve a significant weight loss with good tolerance in obese patients."
Surgery
Fitting a gastric balloon is a relatively straightforward, although all procedures carry some risk. The patient is first given a local anesthetic and the balloon is passed through the throat down to the stomach using an endoscope. The balloon is then filled with either air or saline using a syringe. The whole procedure takes less than 30 minutes, and an overnight stay in hospital is not usually necessary. The balloon will remain in place for up to six months after which time it will be retrieved using endoscopy.
Advantages
Gastric balloon surgery is considered to have several benefits. According to Nuffield Health, the main advantage is long-term weight loss. Gastric balloon surgery may also help improve obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea. Patients may also experience improved self-esteem as they start to lose weight.
Risks
The British Obesity Surgery Patient Association warns that although it is unlikely a person will experience any complications with gastric balloon surgery, there are risks that should be taken into consideration. According to BOSPA, if the balloon partially deflates and passes from the stomach into the small bowel, a life-threatening obstruction may occur. In addition, BOSPA says that inserting and removing the balloon may cause bleeding or perforation of the gastrointestinal tract. Some patients may also experience nausea and vomiting after they have first had the balloon fitted. Others may experience stomach discomfort and back pain.
Other Considerations
Gastric balloon surgery is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breast feeding or for individuals with inflammatory disease or psychiatric disorders. People considering gastric balloon surgery should also realize that surgery is not a substitute for diet and exercise. In fact doctors will likely recommend that patients with a gastric balloon follow a strict, calorie-controlled diet and exercise program.
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