Gastric Balloon
The gastric balloon is an endoscopically placed balloon that occupies space in the stomach, helping patients feel full sooner and adhere to their diet.
What is the necessity of a gastric balloon?
The placement of an intragastric balloon aids in weight loss, which can reduce the risk of various weight-related health issues, including:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Heart disease or stroke
- High blood pressure
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
- Type 2 diabetes
Who is the gastric balloon suitable for?
An intragastric balloon may be a suitable option for you if:
- Your body mass index (BMI) is between 30 and 40.
- You are willing to make and sustain healthy lifestyle changes, undergo regular medical follow-up, and participate in behavioral therapy.
- You have not undergone any previous stomach or esophageal surgery.
Gastric Balloon Procedure
The intragastric balloon procedure is performed in the endoscopy unit as an outpatient procedure. You will receive sedation for the procedure.
During the procedure, a thin tube called a catheter, which contains the intragastric balloon, is inserted through your throat into your stomach. Additionally, an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera, is inserted to provide visualization. The doctor uses the camera to guide the filling of the balloon with saline.
The entire procedure typically takes around 30 minutes. After the procedure is completed, you can usually return home within one to two hours.
Gastric Balloon FAQs
How much weight can I expect to lose with a gastric balloon?
Gastric balloons are an alternative to bariatric surgery for individuals with lower body mass indexes. On average, patients can lose between 20 and 50 pounds over a period of six months, which typically represents about 10 to 20% of their total body weight.
Can I resume normal eating habits after getting a gastric balloon?
Following the placement of a gastric balloon, you will initially follow a fluid diet for the first three days. Then, you will gradually transition to soft foods until day ten, after which you can resume eating normal textured foods. Adhering to a strict diet allows your body to adjust to the balloon, prevents dehydration, and maintains your energy levels.
Who is eligible for a gastric balloon?
To qualify for this procedure, patients must have a body mass index (BMI) between 30 and 40 and should not have undergone previous weight loss surgery. The gastric balloon is most suitable for individuals who need to lose around 30 percent of their excess body weight.
Is the gastric balloon procedure painful?
Some patients may experience a sore throat for a short period after the procedure. Approximately one-third of patients may also experience pain, nausea, or discomfort in the first few days. Over-the-counter pain medication is typically effective in alleviating these symptoms.
How long does the gastric balloon remain in place?
The gastric balloon is filled with saltwater and remains in the stomach for a duration of six months. After this period, it is removed. By reducing the stomach volume, the gastric balloon helps individuals with obesity feel full with smaller amounts of food, facilitating gradual weight loss.