1 March 2019 What is the gastric balloon and what does it do? The gastric balloon is a hollow spherical device with a smooth outer surface that is resistant to gastric acid. Once it has been placed in the stomach and filled with physiological saline, it reaches a volume of between 400 and 700 ml. Because of the space it occupies, the balloon decreases the gastric space available for food, which has the effect of limiting the capacity for ingestion. Who can the gastric balloon be used by? Patients who are candidates for surgical treatment of obesity but who do not wish to undergo a procedure of this nature for whatever reason; Super obese patients who would be candidates for the surgical treatment of obesity, but where the risks associated with such intervention are high. The gastric balloon is implanted with the aim of achieving some weight loss prior to surgery, thereby making it possible to reduce those risks. In this way, surgical intervention for the treatment of obesity can be carried out at a later stage; Patients who are not candidates for surgery because of their level of obesity, but who are following a weight-loss programme and wish to accelerate that effect, while continuing to comply with the prescribed dietary rules. How is the gastric balloon inserted and removed? The gastric balloon is inserted into the stomach endoscopically , through the mouth. The procedure is relatively quick and, although carried out under deep sedation, does not require hospital admission. At the end of the treatment period and after it has been emptied, the balloon is removed in the same way. The longest a balloon can remain in the stomach is six to seven months. The maximum time is partly determined by the weakening of the stomach wall and the possibility of adhesion - problems associated with increased risk of obstruction. Other more common side effects and complications reported with the gastric balloon include nausea, vomiting and dehydration. Is weight loss guaranteed? The gastric balloon can lead to noticeable weight loss. However, this depends on compliance with strict dietary rules. This is because the stomach has considerable capacity for dilation, and can adapt to the ingestion of increasing amounts of food. For the same reason, long-term success with this treatment is relatively limited if strict dietary rules are not continued once the gastric balloon has been removed. Gastroenterologists are the doctors who can help you in this area. This article was written with the support of physicians and other clinical professionals from the Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
