Intragatric balloons
WHAT IS AN INTRAGASTRIC BALLOON?
An Intragastric Balloon is an inflatable prosthetic device, which can be used as a temporary aid to achieving weight loss in moderately obese patients.
This procedure is carried out by passing a deflated balloon directly into the stomach via the mouth and then inflating it with air or saline. Once inflated, the Intragastric balloon produces artificial bulk in the stomach. This bulk produces a feeling of satiety (in other words you feel full for longer) and reduces a patient's ability to consume large volumes of food or fluid in one intake.
As this procedure is only aimed at providing a temporary weight loss solution, the balloon is only left in place for a maximum of six months.
WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM HAVING AN INTRAGASTRIC BALLOON PROCEDURE?
- This procedure can be used in isolation to provide a short-term solution for patients who are struggling to cope with their individual weight loss challenge, as it helps them dramatically curb their appetite.
- This procedure can be used as an adjunct for the more seriously obese patient who needs short-term assistance in getting to a safer weight before contemplating a permanent weight loss solution and general anaesthetic.
HOW IS AN INTRAGASTRIC BALLOON PROCEDURE CARRIED OUT?
The ultimate aim of the surgeon when inserting an Intragastric Balloon is to skillfully place the balloon into the stomach without the need for open surgery involving any incisions. This procedure method is known as an endoscopic procedure and generally takes about 15-20 minutes to perform. Patients are well sedated, but not asleep whilst a deflated balloon is inserted into the stomach directly through the mouth and oesophagus. Once the balloon is in the correct position it is inflated with saline or air through a valve.
WHAT IS THE RECOVERY LIKE?
The first few days after the procedure are generally uncomfortable until the stomach adapts to the presence of the Intragastric Balloon. It is common for many patients to experience nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea and stomach cramps until their body completely adjusts to the balloons presence.
Following a procedure, all patients are restricted to a liquid only diet for the first three days, i.e.: water, juice, milk, thin soup and sloppy jelly. Gradually a patient's ability to tolerate most types of food will improve, although the volume of food they are able to consume in one intake will be substantially reduced.
Dependent on their level of nausea, most patients are discharged on the same day of their procedure. In the early days following discharge patients are strongly advised to stay gently mobile at home.
Patients will be advised to take a specific amount of recovery time away from work, dependent on the type of work they perform, but it is usual to take around a week off work.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH INTRAGASTRIC BALLOON SURGERY?
On rare occasions the Intragastric Balloon can deflate and/or migrate through the stomach and into the intestines. This can lead to an erosion or obstruction, which would require urgent corrective surgery.
Although Intragastric Balloon procedures are regularly performed without any complications, it is very important that all candidates are fully aware of both the benefits and risks of undertaking this type of specialist weight loss procedure
All endoscopic procedures, no mater how expertly or carefully they are performed, carry risks and the importance of a full evaluation and consultation to discuss your understanding and expectations in relation to these risks cannot be over emphasised.
Are You Ready For the Next Step?
HOW DO I FIND OUT IF I AM A SUITABLE CANDIDATE FOR INTRAGASTRIC BALLOON SURGERY?
Mr Agwunobi will carry out a full evaluation of your individual needs and circumstances at consultation and provide you with a comprehensive verbal and written explanation of any recommended treatment.
Mr Agwunobi understands the importance of the procedure you are contemplating and throughout your consultation you will be encouraged to ask as many questions as you wish and to take your time in making a decision to proceed with any treatment or not.
Find out more
If you would like to find out more about gastric banding and discover if you are a suitable candidate for this procedure, please telephone 0161 432 2061, email or use the Contact form to organise a consultation appointment.