Intragastric Balloon

If diet and exercise have failed to help you lose weight, a medical device called an intragastric balloon may be the best option. The balloon is a small, inflatable device that is placed inside the stomach. Patients who are overweight can lose weight safely and comfortably with the use of a balloon. However, the procedure is not for everyone.
Treatment of obesity with an inflatable medical device

An inflatable medical device is used in the treatment of obesity in adults. It is inflated into the shape of a torus and delivered to the stomach. When inflated, it reduces the volume of the stomach and induces satiety. It is used in conjunction with a moderate-intensity exercise and diet program.

Unlike the traditional procedure of bypass, an inflatable medical device is not implanted in the patient. It also does not remain within the patient postoperatively. This makes it an excellent alternative to bypass operations in obese patients. It treats obesity without the complications of bypass operations and does not cause malabsorption.

Another medical device used in the treatment of obesity is a gastric emptying system. It helps the patient control the amount of food that they eat and therefore reduces the amount of calories they absorb. A small tube is inserted into the stomach with a valve that opens when swallowing. When the patient is full, a button on the device is pressed to close the valve. This helps prevent food from entering the intestines.
Side effects of intragastric balloons

The intragastric balloon is a surgical procedure used to reduce the size of the stomach. However, the procedure does come with certain side effects. The patient may experience indigestion or discomfort following the procedure, but the doctor can prescribe antacids to alleviate these symptoms. The patient must be willing to undergo a few days of recovery before they can resume normal activities.

The most common side effect is gastric perforation. This is a complication that occurs within 2 hours to 3 days after balloon implantation. Patients with prior bariatric surgery, a history of abdominal trauma, or previous gastric bypass surgery are at an increased risk of experiencing gastric perforation.

Another serious risk is a rupture of the intragastric balloon. This can cause nausea and vomiting, which can lead to complications. However, the FDA is working to minimize these risks. Its MedWatch program, which promotes prompt reporting of adverse events, allows the agency to better monitor the safety of medical devices.
Weight loss with intragastric balloons

An intragastric balloon is a weight loss surgery that uses a balloon that is inserted in the stomach. Patients who are obese can undergo the procedure to lose excess weight. The procedure is also used to help those who suffer from PCOD and infertility. It does not require any major surgery and is a safe alternative to weight loss surgery. Before the procedure, patients are advised to consult with a team of medical professionals that includes a gastroenterologist, bariatric surgeon, and dietitian. This team will discuss the options available and determine whether an intragastric balloon is the best choice for them. The team will also suggest any additional consultations or investigations that may be necessary.

Approximately 10 to 15 percent of excess weight is lost following the procedure. Recovery is usually minimal, with patients spending a few hours in the recovery room. They may also receive IV fluids and antiemetics to help with recovery. Patients can return to normal eating after about two weeks. In many cases, patients report improvements in various weight-related health conditions, such as diabetes and sleep apnea. They may also experience improvements in their fatty liver and dyslipidemia, an abnormal level of lipids in the blood.
Recovery from intragastric balloon procedure

Recovery from intragastric balloon procedure requires time, rest and diet changes. Initially, patients are placed on a liquid diet and gradually advance to a full or soft diet. They are also prescribed medicines to reduce nausea. The patient will also be given medications for acid reflux and nausea. Recovery time can take as long as two weeks.

Recovery from intragastric balloon procedure is different than that for bariatric surgery. Side effects from the procedure are usually mild and short-lived. However, if any severe side effects occur, you should consult a physician immediately. In addition, the patient is coached on diet and exercise to ensure long-termweight loss . A few patients also experience improvements in their weight-related conditions, such as sleep apnea and high blood pressure. In some cases, the procedure improves symptoms of dyslipidemia, a condition where the lipids in the blood are abnormal.

Recovery from intragastric balloon procedure involves a period of rest and regaining strength. Most patients return to work a few days after the procedure. However, this will depend on the procedure. Some patients may have to spend a few days in the hospital after the procedure.