English
Intra Gastric Balloons Surgery in Kolkata

Intra Gastric Balloons

Intra Gastric Balloons Surgery In Kolkata

The Intragastric Balloon is a non-invasive and temporary treatment approach for weight loss in obese patients. Typically, a soft saline or air-filled balloon is inserted into the stomach by an endoscope. Because it occupies space, the balloon acts as a constraint and produces a sense of satiation. The goal is to make you feel fuller faster after eating smaller meals and keep that sense of fullness longer, so you're less hungry in between meals. Patients frequently lose 20–35 pounds of weight and improve diabetes and blood pressure control during the 6-month duration of the balloon's stay in the stomach. After 6 months, the balloon is removed, and maintaining a good diet and exercise routine becomes important to your continued weight loss success.

This procedure is often considered for people who are moderately overweight or obese and have not achieved significant weight loss through diet and exercise alone. While the balloon can lead to substantial weight loss, it is most effective when combined with a comprehensive weight management program, including dietary changes, physical activity, and behavioural therapy.

FAQ's

The Intragastric Balloon, sometimes known as the "weight loss balloon," is a straightforward endoscopic operation that involves introducing a delicate yet sturdy balloon into your stomach. The weight-loss balloon causes you to feel full, which reduces your urge to eat. When combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, this improves portion control and makes weight loss simpler.

Patients do not lose as much weight with a Gastric Balloon as they would with Bariatric surgery, but they do lose more weight than they would if they made lifestyle modifications on their own.

A Gastric Balloon can help patients who do not qualify for Bariatric surgery, are not healthy enough to undergo it, or wish to forgo surgery lose up to 15% of their total body weight. However, it is not suggested for patients who have previously undergone Stomach or Oesophagal surgery.

The candidate who falls under the following conditions will be a suitable candidate for Gastric Balloon surgery:

  • To enrol in a medically supervised weight loss programme, you must be at least 30 pounds overweight, have no prior weight loss surgery, and avoid binge eating. 

  • Eaters who do not have poorly-stabilised type II diabetes and do not experience heartburn while using heartburn medications.

  • If you have not had ulcers in your stomach or small intestines or have not been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you may not be able to lose weight through diet or exercise. 

  • Requirements include not having an inflammatory bowel illness and no prior procedures in the small intestine or stomach (save for an uncomplicated Appendectomy). 

  • Individuals must be at least 22 years old and not on blood thinners.

The insertion of an Intragastric Balloon is done as an outpatient procedure under sedation to assure your comfort. Your healthcare professional will use an endoscope to guide a deflated balloon through your mouth and into your stomach. This minimally invasive method eliminates the need for surgical incisions and shortens recovery time.

Once the balloon is properly positioned in the stomach, it is filled with saline solution. The entire treatment usually takes approximately 20–30 minutes, following which you will be observed for a little while before being allowed to go home.

After the Intragastric Balloon is removed, your healthcare professional will continue to help you maintain your weight loss and overall health. To maintain your weight loss outcomes, you will be encouraged to continue the dietary and exercise habits you developed during the ballooning phase.

Regular follow-up visits will be organised to track your progress, address any obstacles you may face, and provide ongoing direction and support.

By adopting a healthy lifestyle and making informed decisions, you can reap the benefits of your weight loss journey even after the balloon has been removed.

The balloon's negative effects are typically limited to the first five days following insertion, with the first three being the most severe. In addition to the symptoms indicated below, patients frequently experience lethargy and a lack of energy in the first few days following insertion as the body adjusts; however, this usually resolves within one week. Doctors recommend resting at this time to speed up your recovery. A balloon can cause four basic types of symptoms:

  • Cramping: This is normal in the first 3–4 days after a balloon is implanted and can be managed with medication. Overeating or eating incorrect foods can also cause cramps.

  • Reflux (with heartburn and some belching): Acid reflux drugs must be taken throughout the balloon's life to prevent it. Over-the-counter antacids can also be used. Overeating, binge drinking, eating rich (creamy or oily) foods, and drinking wine are all known to cause acid reflux symptoms.

  • Nausea is typically mild to severe in the first several days following insertion.

  • Vomiting is typically infrequent or mild with our innovative programme and seldom severe (before, over 95% of patients experienced severe vomiting).

Diet and lifestyle adjustments are critical to maximising the effects of an Intragastric Balloon and attaining long-term weight loss. Your healthcare professional will collaborate with you to create a personalised nutrition plan that emphasises balanced meals, portion control, and healthy food options.

Regular physical activity is also suggested to help burn calories and improve overall health. These adjustments help to build habits that encourage long-term weight management, even after the balloon is withdrawn.

Losing and keeping weight off is a lifelong journey. Your body will always remember its top weight and your metabolism will adapt to get you back there. We understand that weight gain (relapse) is an aspect of obesity, which is a chronic disease that must be addressed proactively.

After 12 months, patients often regain 10–20% of their lost weight (e.g., 2-4 kg for a 20-kg reduction). Many of our patients may keep losing weight for up to 5 years before resuming improper eating habits (usually following stressful occasions). The key to avoiding weight gain following any intervention is proactive maintenance.