The intragastric swallow balloon is a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment designed to help individuals manage obesity and achieve significant weight loss. Unlike traditional bariatric surgery, this method offers a temporary solution to aid weight reduction without requiring incisions, anesthesia, or long recovery periods.
What Is an Intragastric Swallow Balloon?
The intragastric swallow balloon is a soft, expandable balloon placed in the stomach to promote a feeling of fullness and reduce food intake. Patients swallow a capsule containing the balloon, which is attached to a thin catheter. Once the balloon reaches the stomach, it is filled with saline or gas through the catheter, which is then removed.
How Does It Work?
The inflated balloon occupies space in the stomach, limiting the amount of food that can be consumed and slowing gastric emptying. This results in reduced calorie intake and promotes satiety. The balloon remains in place for a specific duration (usually 4months ), after which it is naturally excreted.
Indications
- Individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of
- 27–32 Kg/m² who have struggled with diet and exercise alone.
- Those seeking a non-surgical alternative to traditional bariatric procedures.
- Patients requiring weight loss before undergoing other medical or surgical procedures.
Procedure Highlights
- Swallowing the Capsule: The patient swallows the balloon in a capsule form under medical supervision.
- Inflation: The balloon is inflated with saline to a pre-determined volume.
- Post-Procedural Care: Patients are monitored for side effects like nausea or discomfort, which typically subside in a few days.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Alongside the balloon, dietary counseling and behavioral modifications are critical for sustained weight loss.
Benefits
- Non-surgical and minimally invasive.
- Short placement and recovery time.
- Temporary and reversible.
- Effective for moderate weight loss (10–15% of total body weight on average).
Risks and Limitations
- Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort in the initial days.
- Risk of balloon deflation or migration, though rare.
- Temporary solution: Weight may be regained if lifestyle changes are not maintained.
- Not suitable for patients with gastrointestinal conditions, pregnancy, or previous bariatric surgery.
Conclusion
The intragastric swallow balloon is an innovative option for individuals looking for a non-surgical method to kickstart their weight loss journey. While it is not a standalone solution, combining it with long-term lifestyle changes can lead to sustainable weight management and improved overall health.
For best results, consultation with a multidisciplinary team comprising bariatric surgeons, dietitians, and psychologists is recommended to ensure a comprehensive approach to obesity management.
Dr Randeep Wadhawan
Vice Chairman,
GI, Bariatric , Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery.
