Gastric Balloon

GASTRIC BALLOON

The gastric balloon is a non-surgical obesity treatment used for weight loss.
This method is a treatment method that can remain in the stomach for 6–12 months and is used in the treatment of obesity.
It has been practised for around 30 years. Compliance with the diet and exercise programme with this method, a weight loss of 10–20 kg per year can be expected.

After the balloon is inserted, weight is controlled as part of a programme under the supervision of a dietician.
This method, which does not require surgical treatment of obesity, reduces stomach volume with the help of a cover balloon which reduces food intake, creates a constant feeling of satiety and contributes to weight loss by creating a low-calorie environment.

Ideal Candidates for Gastric Balloon

Gastric balloon can be used in:

• Patients with a BMI of 30 or more

• Patients who have failed despite numerous diet and exercise programmes

• Overweight patients for whom surgical treatment is too risky

• Patients aged 18 to 60

Contraindications — Who Cannot Receive Gastric Balloon?

• Patients with alcohol or drug dependence

• Pregnant or planning pregnancy

• Patients with severe heart, kidney, liver or lung disease

• Patients who previously underwent oesophagus or stomach surgery

• Patients who require continuous blood thinners

• Patients with stomach hernias, reflux with oesophageal burns

• Patients with gastro-duodenal ulcer

Advantages of Gastric Balloon

• Non-surgical (no incisions)

• Procedure takes only 15–30 minutes

• Same-day discharge

• Rapid early weight loss (first 3–4 months)

• Balloon remains 6–12 months

• Reduces hunger & portion size

• Ideal for people avoiding permanent surgery

Possible Side Effects

The effect of the gastric balloon is temporary; diet and lifestyle changes must continue after removal.

Possible side effects may include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Stomach cramps

These effects are usually temporary.

Weight loss may be more limited compared to surgical options.
Long-term success requires lifestyle changes.

APPLICATION OF THE GASTRIC BALLOON

The gastric balloon is inserted into the stomach under sedation using an endoscope.
As the procedure is performed under anaesthesia, the patient feels nothing and the operation is completed in about 15 minutes.

Before placement:

• The oesophagus, stomach and duodenum are examined endoscopically

• If no obstacle is found, the balloon is inserted

Placement steps:

1. The balloon is inserted through the mouth into the stomach

2. Once positioned, a methylene-blue coloured serum (saline) is introduced

3. The balloon is gradually inflated depending on patient tolerance

Initial amount: 400 cm³ saline, increased as needed.

After the procedure, the patient wakes up and can go home after a 1–2 hour observation.

TYPES OF GASTRIC BALLOONS

There are two main types:

1 — Liquid Gastric Balloon

• Inserted into the stomach and filled with sterile liquid

• Provides faster feeling of fullness

• Encourages reduced food intake

• Remains for 6 months to 1 year

• Removed endoscopically

• Temporary side effects: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain

2 — Air Gastric Balloon

• Inserted into the stomach and filled with air using a pump

• Expands the stomach to induce early satiety

• Remains 6 months to 1 year

• Air-filled balloons may cause less discomfort due to volume flexibility