The gastric balloon for obesity
Over the past decade, the gastric balloon has become a clinically accepted method of treatment of obesity in Europe, Canada, Australia and South America. Because the procedure is not available in the USA, until recently, Americans had to travel far afield to obtain this treatment. The procedure is now performed at The Centre for Digestive Health here in Nassau.
The Gastric Balloon is not for everyone. We will not consider you for this treatment if you:
- Are less than 18 years of age
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of less than 30
- Have an unresolved eating disorder such as bulimia
- Have esophagitis, peptic ulcer disease, or inflammation such as Crohn's disease
- Have a potential upper gastrointestinal bleeding condition
- Have abnormalities of the upper digestive tract such as a large hiatus hernia
- Are emotionally unstable
- Are dependent on alcohol or illicit drugs
- Have to take high doses of aspirin or other NSAID medication
- Have had major abdominal surgery, intestinal obstruction or adhesionsHave poor general health that would preclude surgery if needed
- Plan to become pregnant within the next 12 months
Gastric Balloon FAQs
Q. What results can you expect?
A. Studies have shown that the anticipated excess weight lost with the gastric balloon is between 25% and 40%. For example, if you were 100 pounds above your ideal body weight, you would be expected to lose between 25 and 40 pounds during the time the balloon is in place. The amount of weight lost during the six months that the balloon is in place will depend on how well you are able to reduce calorie intake. How long patients maintain the weight loss will depend on how successfully they adopt long-term lifestyle changes in eating behaviour and exercise. Individual results vary and it is possible not to lose any weight at all.
Q. What are the risks?
A. The decision to have a gastric balloon should not be lightly undertaken, because, as with all medical procedures, it carries some risk. Upper GI endoscopy, which is performed to examine the condition of the upper digestive tract and then to guide the placement of the balloon. This procedure carries a small risk of complications and injury. The gastric balloon itself can cause the following complications:
• Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) that can be severe
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Injury to the stomach
• Intestinal obstruction
Q. Do I need a referral from my primary care physician?
A. No, you do not need a referral but this is recommended. We would like to know that any health issues that you may suffer have been addressed by your primary care physician prior to starting the gastric balloon treatment. We encourage you to see your doctor regularly. Our patients are given full documentation of your procedure for your doctor.
Q. Do I need to follow a special diet following the procedure?
A. Yes. You will be restricted to a liquid diet for the first three days following the procedure. After a few days on a liquid diet, you will be ready to begin the transition to semi-solids such as cream of wheat, thicker soups and fruit purées. You will begin solid food after approximately one week. How quickly you make this transition will depend on your progress and how well your body is tolerating the liquids. It is important to make the transition slowly, and to try not to rush the adjustment process.
Q. Can I drink alcohol?
A. Alcohol, even in moderation, may precipitate reflux symptoms and so we discourage it.
Q. Can the balloon be punctured once it is inside me?
A. This is very unlikely. The balloon is constructed of a high-quality silicone elastomer, which makes it resistant to gastric acidity and sharp pieces of food.
Q. What happens if the balloon leaks?
A. There is a small chance that the balloon could deflate before the scheduled removal and patients may or may not be aware that it has occurred. If the balloon should spontaneously deflate, you may no longer have a feeling of satiety and the physical sensation of the balloon will disappear. If you suspect this may be the case, please contact us as soon as possible. A simple abdominal X-ray can determine whether this has occurred and if so, we will arrange for the deflated balloon to be removed.
A completely deflated balloon is small enough to pass through the intestines and leave the body naturally, but there have been cases reported that have required major surgery to remove a balloon and repair intestine.
Q. Can the Gastric Balloon be left in longer than six months?
A. Periods longer than six months are not recommended because the acidic content of your stomach can weaken the balloon material and cause it to deflate. Should your doctor recommend use for longer than six months, a new balloon should be placed.
Q. What are my other operative weight loss options?
A. Bariatric surgery, or weight loss surgery is an option. They are all effective weight loss procedures and each carries its own advantages and risk of complications. These are discussed here.
|
