Intragastric Balloon Procedure
Overview
An intragastric balloon is a temporary device doctors place in the stomach to help with weight management. This soft silicone balloon is filled with saline and takes up space so the stomach holds less food. As a result, people feel full sooner and eat less during meals.
This minimally invasive procedure does not require surgery. People often choose it when they have trouble losing weight with only diet and exercise. The gastric balloon system works best when combined with changes in eating habits and regular physical activity.
Key points about the intragastric balloon system:
- Made of silicone
- Placed for a limited period
- Encourages lifestyle changes
- Used when other weight-loss options are not enough
Reasons for the Procedure
Doctors use the intragastric balloon to help people manage obesity and lower their risk of health issues related to being overweight. Losing weight with this device can help reduce the chances of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), sleep apnea, and some cancers like breast or prostate cancer.
By limiting how much a person can eat, the balloon supports reaching weight loss targets when other methods such as diet and exercise have not been effective. This method gives people a chance to improve their health before serious problems develop or get worse.
Who Might Benefit
A person may be a good candidate for an intragastric balloon if their body mass index (BMI) falls between 30 and 40. They should be prepared to follow a healthy eating plan, meet regularly with their doctor, and take part in counseling to change habits.
Some factors may prevent people from having the balloon, such as past stomach or esophagus surgery. A doctor will check each person carefully to make sure the balloon is safe for them. Insurance may not always cover the procedure’s cost, so it could be an out-of-pocket expense.
Possible Risks
After a doctor places an intragastric balloon, some people may experience pain, nausea, or vomiting, especially in the first few days. These side effects are common but usually temporary.
Possible complications include:
- Balloon Deflation: If the balloon loses air or fluid, it could travel through the digestive tract. This may lead to a blockage, needing another procedure or surgery.
- Bowel Blockages: A deflated or damaged balloon might block the intestines, which can be serious.
- Ulcers and Perforations: The balloon could irritate the stomach lining, causing ulcers or, in rare cases, a hole in the stomach wall.
- Overinflation or Pancreatitis: In rare situations, the balloon may overinflate or cause swelling of the pancreas.
Anyone who has ongoing or severe symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.
Getting Ready for the Procedure
Before doctors place an intragastric balloon, patients usually take part in several steps to get prepared. The healthcare team often asks for lab tests and medical checkups first. They may provide a list of foods and drinks to avoid and might change which medications can be taken.
Preparation Steps
- Follow eating and drinking restrictions.
- Adjust medication use if needed.
- Begin a simple exercise routine.
- Meet with a nutritionist or attend lifestyle coaching sessions.
What You Can Expect
What Happens While the Balloon Goes In
The intragastric balloon procedure takes place in an endoscopy unit. Medical staff perform it as an outpatient visit, and the patient receives sedation to stay comfortable. A doctor gently moves a thin tube with the deflated balloon inside down the throat into the stomach.
Next, a flexible tube with a camera, called an endoscope, helps the medical team see inside the stomach for safe placement. The doctor then fills the balloon with saline solution. The whole process usually lasts around 30 minutes. Patients can normally leave the clinic about 1 to 2 hours after the doctor places the balloon.
Table: Key Details of the Placement
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Sedation | Given for comfort |
| Balloon Placement | Placed using thin tubes via mouth |
| Saline Fill | Balloon filled to create fullness |
| Outpatient | Go home same day |
What May Occur After the Balloon Is Placed
About six hours after the procedure, patients can begin drinking small amounts of clear liquids. The clear liquid diet continues for several days. By the second week, soft foods are allowed. Around three weeks later, most people can return to regular foods. The balloon stays inside the stomach for up to six months.
Doctors remove it with an endoscope. Sometimes, a doctor places a new balloon if needed, based on the treatment plan designed by the doctor and patient. The care team, which may include a dietitian, psychologist, and other professionals, will support healthy lifestyle changes.
These steps help with weight loss, behavior change, and new eating habits. Changes in diet and exercise, along with the balloon’s feeling of fullness, are important for lasting results, especially for those who have a higher body mass index (BMI).
Outcomes After Non-Surgical Weight-Loss Approaches
Not everyone achieves their desired results after using weight-loss methods like intragastric balloons, bariatric surgery, or other non-surgical techniques. Several factors can impact success, with the most important being how well a person sticks to changes in their lifestyle. Key factors in regaining weight include:
- Inconsistent or unhealthy eating habits.
- Lack of regular exercise.
- Not following ongoing medical or dietary advice.
Even if a weight-loss procedure itself goes as planned, weight regain is possible. This often happens when new healthy habits are not maintained long-term.
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Irregular healthy meal plans | Skipping or ignoring dietary guidelines |
| Sedentary lifestyle | Little or no physical activity |
| Lack of follow-up support | Not attending check-ups or counseling |
People who succeed often use support systems, such as health professionals, group counseling, or structured meal plans, to help them stay on track. Sometimes, additional help or another weight-loss procedure may be needed if previous attempts did not lead to enough weight loss. In these cases, medical teams may review the person’s habits and challenges before deciding on the next steps.
