Last Updated on December 19, 2023 by Flavia Calina
You’re a candidate for a gastric balloon if you’re opposed to surgical solutions but you’re determined to make lasting lifestyle changes. Work with a trusted medical professional to determine if this approach suits you.
The intragastric balloon is a short-term, minimally invasive weight loss program that combines long-term diet and lifestyle changes with an implanted medical device.
What is a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon is an inflatable implant that a healthcare provider places nonsurgically in your stomach. It is filled with saline, which reduces the volume of your stomach to help you feel full and control your appetite.
BMI is one of the primary criteria for gastric balloon eligibility, but you must also pass a medical screening. People with a high BMI who have comorbid health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and sleep apnea may qualify for this method of weight loss.
The procedure is performed under sedation and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Your doctor inserts a narrow, lighted tube called an endoscope through your mouth into your stomach, then guides the deflated balloon into place.
The physician then inflates the balloon to the desired size. Afterward, they remove the endoscope and the balloon from your stomach. A follow-up visit with the dietitian and a physical therapist is scheduled to reinforce long-term lifestyle changes. After six months, the physician will repeat the procedure to remove the balloon if needed. Then, you will continue with the program to promote long-term success.
How Does a Gastric Balloon Work?
The gastric balloon (also known as an intragastric balloon) is a non-surgical, short-term treatment that helps you lose weight by reducing the amount of food you can eat. It is made of soft, medical-grade silicone and is placed in your stomach through endoscopy (a tube passed through the mouth).
The balloon is a small, spherical device filled with saline solution (salt water) and occupies space inside the stomach, leaving less room for larger meals. It also works to reduce appetite and prolong feelings of fullness.
During the procedure, you are comfortable and sedated, so you don’t feel pain or nausea. The procedure itself only takes 20 to 30 minutes, and you will spend a few hours in the hospital for recovery with IV fluids and anti-emetics.
You must follow a liquid diet and slowly progress to a more solid diet, such as pureed or soft foods. Consider working with a registered dietitian for nutritional support. You may need up to six months for your stomach to adjust to the balloon.
How Long Does a Gastric Balloon Last?
A gastric balloon stays in the stomach for six months, helping you lose weight and encourage new eating habits. Clinical trials show patients can lose up to 47% of their excess body weight in the six months the device is used, meaning a 400-pound patient could lose 150 pounds.
The saline-filled balloon takes up space inside the stomach, leaving less room for food. It also interferes with the stomach-emptying process and reduces your appetite, promoting smaller meals. The balloon may cause nausea or pain for a few days after placement, but these symptoms typically disappear within three to five days. Acid reflux (GERD) can sometimes occur and is treated with a daily dose of antacid medication such as Prilosec.
Candidates for a gastric balloon are individuals who fall into the overweight category with a BMI of 30 or higher or have obesity-related health risks such as diabetes, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, and sleep apnea. The procedure is minimally invasive and can be completed in under 20 minutes.
What are the Side Effects of a Gastric Balloon?
An intragastric balloon in your stomach can initially cause discomfort as your body grows accustomed to the device’s presence. This usually is mild and brief. Suppose you experience significant pain in your abdomen. In that case, you should contact us immediately, as this is a sign of a ruptured or deflated balloon and could cause a perforation in the stomach lining, resulting in a life-threatening infection.
The balloon takes up space in your stomach, reducing the amount of food you can consume. It can also lead to feelings of bloating, nausea, and discomfort.
Intragastric balloons are a safe and effective option for those looking to lose weight and improve their lifestyle without the need for surgery. When combined with a comprehensive support package that includes healthy eating and lifestyle changes, patients can achieve impressive results and long-term weight loss success. The procedure can also be used as a bridge for those who are seeking to undergo more extensive weight loss surgeries or as a primary treatment for those who are unable to undergo surgery due to medical comorbidities.
How Does a Gastric Balloon Work for Weight Loss?
A gastric balloon is an effective weight loss tool that helps patients kickstart their weight loss journey. It’s a non-surgical alternative to bariatric surgery and can be used to treat obesity-related health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
The saline-filled balloon occupies space in the stomach, so patients can only eat small meals and feel full faster. It also slows the passage of food from the stomach to the intestines, which prolongs feelings of fullness. As a result, many patients experience rapid weight loss and learn to eat less, improve their eating habits, and develop healthy lifestyles.
After six months, the balloon is removed, and patients continue working with their team to eat well and exercise regularly for long-lasting results. The first few weeks with the balloon in place can be uncomfortable, but over-the-counter pain medication typically relieves symptoms.
While the intragastric balloons are safe and effective, there is a small risk that they can migrate into the intestines, where they can cause blockages. Some intragastric balloons have tracking devices to notify the team if this occurs, and a doctor can perform endoscopic or surgical intervention. Read more exciting articles on Today World Info
