Who is a Candidate

An intragastric balloon operation is ideal for people suffering from obesity.

You are an ideal candidate for an intragastric balloon if:

• You are at least 18 years old
• Your BMI ranges from 30 to 40; a higher or lower BMI may also be appropriate

Preparation

During Intragastric Balloon surgery, a soft yet sturdy balloon is put into your stomach during the surgery using an endoscope through your mouth. The surgeon will insert the balloon to take up space in your belly, reducing the capacity for heavy meals and beverages.

The surgeon will insert a flexible telescope (endoscope) into the back of your throat. After placing the endoscope in your throat, the surgeon will instruct you to swallow. This will make it easier for the endoscope to enter your esophagus (gullet) and travel through your digestive tract.

The mouth and esophagus are both passed through with a deflated balloon. After that, the liquid is pumped into the balloon to fill your stomach and make you feel partially full. This will assist you in altering your eating habits, lowering the amount of food consumed, and hastening the feeling of fullness. The balloon can only remain in place for six months before it is removed.

Surgery Details

The Intragastric Balloon System is implanted in your belly during a 30-minute minimally invasive endoscopic outpatient operation on a mildly sedated patient. The balloon is inflated with a sterile fluid. The balloon partially fills the stomach, causing satiety. Your doctor will check for issues like ulcers or inflammation. He will use a soft tube attached to the balloon to fill it with either 400 to 700 milliliters of saline solution or 650 to 750 milliliters of air.

After Surgery

After six months of surgery, the balloon can either be refilled if it’s a Spatz Ballon or it can be removed, it will depend on the brand of ballon you choose, but you should continue your controlled food program to maintain your weight. According to a recent study, participants shed an average of 10.2% of their body weight. Participation in the fitness and nutrition plans is mandatory for patients who opt for intragastric balloon insertion.

Home Recovery

You will need to consume fluids solely for the first week after your intragastric balloon surgery. This practice is essential to ensure the stomach adjusts to the balloon. To avoid dehydration, you must drink enough water.

• Avoid drinking coffee and carbonated beverages
• Drink no more than 100ml at a time, and aim for 2 liters (8 cups) each day
• Low fat/low sugar f fluids are the best. These include soup without lumps, low-fat yogurt beverages, and semi- or skimmed or skimmed milk

You will transition to a pureed diet for the following week before progressing to a regular diet.