Intragastric Balloon

What is the purpose of an Intragastric Balloon?

The Intragastric Balloon is a non-surgical, temporary weight loss treatment for obesity, in which a high quality and durable silicone bag is inserted into the stomach through the throat with an endoscope or gastroscope. When in the stomach, the bag is inflated with air or saline to resemble a balloon (hence the name). An Intragastric Balloon is designed to aid weight loss over a six month period, enabling patients suffering from obesity to feel full, curb their appetites, eat smaller portions and gain control, in order to follow a managed diet and lifestyle programme for improved health and well-being.

Who is eligible for Intragastric Balloon treatment?

Eligibility for an Intragastric Balloon is limited to people with a high body mass index (BMI) in excess of 60, in addition to those with associated medical complications which shorten their life quality and expectancy. The procedure is geared to lower their weight and BMI to an acceptably safe level for weight loss surgery, such as Gastric Bypass Surgery. A good candidate for Intragastric Balloon treatment should also be committed to safe weight loss through a medically supervised weight-loss management programme.

People who may not be eligible for Intragastric Balloon treatment are pregnant or breast-feeding women, people with addictions or psychiatric disorders, those surgically treated due to gastrointestinal tract disorders, people with inflammatory diseases, and those who lack commitment to a medically supervised weight loss and behavioural management programme.

What procedure is used to fit an Intragastric Balloon?

An eligible patient may initially be given a sedative by a qualified medical practitioner to reduce any uncomfortable sensations. Thereafter an endoscope is passed through the mouth and throat to insert the Intragastric Balloon into the stomach. Once placed within the stomach the Intragastric Balloon is filled with air or saline, via a syringe or valve in the endoscope. The endoscope tube is then removed via the throat and mouth.

What risks and complications are associated with the procedure?

Your doctor will advise you about all risks and complications associated with the endoscopic fitting of the Intragastric Balloon. As with all medical procedures that are safely and regularly performed, risks are inherent but minimised by the training and experience of your doctor. The main complications that may occur include:

• Deflation of the Intragastric balloon in the stomach and migration into the intestines, in which obstruction may result - this is easily corrected with endoscopic removal or surgery.
• Perforation caused by the endoscopic procedure resulting in bleeding; however, corrective surgery can be used as treatment.
• Side-effects, such as nausea and vomiting, and bloated stomach, which can be experienced for a few days; however, this is treatable with stomach acid-reducing medication.

What is involved in recovery after the fitting of an Intragastric Balloon?

Intragastric Balloon procedures take about 20 minutes and patients are then monitored for a few hours thereafter for healthy post-operative recovery. In the absence of complications most patients are able to return home the same day. Within a couple of days the body adjusts to the existence of the Intragastric Balloon. During this time some side-effects may be experienced, which is why post-procedural guidelines are important to reduce any feelings of discomfort during recovery. These may include:

• Following a recommended liquid diet of water, milk, juice, jelly or liquid soup for the initial three days.
• Gradually eating a broader range of soft foods, progressing as advised onto smaller-portioned solid foods.
• Abstaining from vigorous exercise activity for a minimum of 8 weeks, but maintaining regular gentle movement to promote good circulation and healthy recovery.
• Avoiding undue pressure and injury to the abdomen.
• Taking at least a week off work to allow for proper healing.

What are the benefits of an Intragastric Balloon?

The benefits of temporary weight loss treatment with the Intragastric Balloon include:

• Non-invasive and non-pharmaceutical temporary weight loss surgery with medical support.
• Learning to adjust to a healthier lifestyle through a personalised and medically supervised diet and behavioural management programme.
• Being able to control the appetite through a feeling of stomach fullness.
• Eating reduced portions of food, resulting in weight loss and a safer BMI level.
• Seeing the start of improvement in self-confidence, health and obesity related illness.
• The ability to have weight loss surgery if medically recommended.

Where can I find out more information about treatment?

Contact our team for more information about eligibility and the Intragastric Balloon procedure. We can assess your needs and provide you with personalised feedback about weight loss treatment.