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Bioenterics Intragastric Balloon
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This is a non-surgical alternative for the treatment of obesity – there are no incisions involved. The procedure is not performed in an operating theatre; instead it is performed in the endoscopy suite.
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This procedure works through restriction.
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A silicone balloon is placed in the stomach. Once the position of the balloon within the stomach is confirmed with an endoscope, it is filled with 500 – 700 cc of fluid. The fully inflated balloon takes up space within the stomach, effectively restricting food intake. The fluid-filled balloon also promotes a feeling of satiety (fullness) after meals and decreases food cravings in between meals.
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The balloon is designed to be left in the stomach for up to 6 months. It must be removed at the end of this period. Removal of the balloon is also performed with the aid of an endoscope. The endoscope is used to guide a needle into the balloon. The fluid in the balloon is then aspirated through the needle until the balloon is emptied. The empty balloon can then be retrieved through the mouth. Again this is a completely scarless, incision-less procedure.
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This procedure is mainly intended for people who are overweight or mildly obese and want to lose 10 – 15kg. The procedure will help ‘jumpstart’ your weight loss program, but you will require discipline to maintain your weight after the balloon is removed.
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- It does not involve an abdominal operation
- It is a temporary implant which is meant to be left in place no longer than 6 months
- It MUST be removed after 6 months
- It is associated with a very low procedure risk. This does not mean that there are NO risks associated with this procedure. On rare occasions, complications may occur
- This procedure does not require a hospital stay. Patients may go home after the procedure
- The first week after placement of the balloon may be a little uncomfortable. You may experience nausea, abdominal cramps and occasional vomiting after meals. It is important to prepare yourself mentally for this period, to follow your doctor’s instructions and to drink plenty of fluids. Most patients have no problems after this first week of getting used to the balloon
- On average, patients lose 10 – 15kg at the end of 6 months
- After the balloon is removed, you will need to maintain a healthy, balanced diet and continue with your exercise program. Most published reports document that a certain proportion of patients regain the weight that they lost during the 6 months when the balloon was in place. This procedure works best if you first commit to a permanent lifelong change in your diet, lifestyle and level of daily physical activity – use the BIB as a tool to 'jumpstart' your weight loss program
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