Swallowable Gastric Balloon

What is a swallowable gastric balloon?

The swallowable gastric balloon (SGB) is a non-surgical procedure used in the treatment of obesity. It covers a large area in your stomach and helps you feel full even after eating small amounts of food, providing portion control.

The traditional gastric balloon is placed using anesthesia and endoscopy and removed after its use. The swallowable gastric balloon is placed in the stomach by swallowing and is naturally eliminated from the body after months. It does not require endoscopy, anesthesia or removal surgery.

Who is a swallowable gastric balloon suitable for?

SGB may be suitable for candidates who meet the following criteria:

  • If you are over 18 years of age and have a body mass index (BMI) of over 27, SGB can help you lose weight long-term and manage other conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
  • The SGB procedure may be particularly beneficial for people who are considered too overweight to undergo surgery.
  • Using the balloon to successfully reduce weight before surgery may also help reduce the risks associated with surgical procedures in overweight patients.

How is a swallowable gastric balloon placed?

Here are the steps for inserting a Swallowable Gastric Balloon:

  • Step 1: You swallow the uninflated, deflated balloon attached to a thin tube (catheter).
  • Step 2: An initial X-ray is taken to make sure the capsule is properly placed in your stomach.
  • Step 3: Your doctor fills the balloon in your stomach with 550 ml of fluid using the catheter.
  • Step 4: A second X-ray is taken to make sure the balloon is properly filled.
  • Step 5: The catheter is gently removed and placement is complete. Once your doctor is sure you are comfortable, you can go home.

In most cases, the balloon will empty on its own and pass out of your body naturally after about 4 months.

How to remove a swallowable gastric balloon?

Approximately 4 months after placement, the balloon empties itself by opening its valve and the balloon membrane is naturally expelled through the digestive system without the need for any procedure.

Rarely, conditions requiring surgical intervention such as balloon hyperinflation, small bowel obstruction, stomach dilatation, esophagitis, pancreatitis or stomach perforation are observed.

What is the post-application process like?

Most people can return to normal activities within a day or two. However, some people experience nausea, abdominal cramps, and occasional vomiting after the balloon is placed. In most cases, these symptoms are well controlled with medications prescribed by your doctor.

There are no dietary restrictions with the dissolving gastric balloon. However, your dietitian will make recommendations that are best suited to your body and goals to maximize weight loss and optimize comfort. He or she may recommend that you consume only liquids for the first few days and then move on to solid foods once you feel more comfortable.

What are the benefits of a swallowable gastric balloon?

If the Swallowable Gastric Balloon is successful, long-term weight loss is possible. However, maintaining your ideal weight depends on your ability to stick to your new lifestyle. Long-term weight loss can also improve related health issues, including:
  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Sleep apnea
  • Inactivity
  • Low self-esteem
But for many people, the most appealing aspect of the balloon is that it does not require surgery and can be done on an outpatient basis, meaning minimal disruption to daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Swallowable Gastric Balloon

  1. Is the balloon easy to swallow?

Swallowing a capsule containing a balloon may cause anxiety in some people due to the gag reflex. However, a clinical study with 1,770 patients showed that 99.9% of patients were able to swallow the capsule. In some cases, the doctor may also use assistive devices to make it easier for patients to swallow the balloon.

  1. Who cannot have a swallowable gastric balloon?

The swallowable gastric balloon is not recommended for the following people:

  • Pregnant women
  • Those who consume excessive alcohol
  • Those with reflux disease or stomach ulcers
  • Those who have undergone certain stomach surgeries

Your doctor will decide on your suitability for the operation after performing the necessary tests and examinations.

  1. How much weight can be lost with a swallowable balloon?

Although individual results vary greatly, studies show that patients can lose approximately 10-15% of their initial total body weight on average.

  1. Can the application be repeated?

If the weight loss achieved is less than desired and the patient’s health condition is suitable, a Swallowable Gastric Balloon application can be performed again.

  1. Can the weight lost after the balloon be regained?

The results are successful if the patient follows the diet program offered to him/her after the balloon application.

  1. Is there any harm in the use of a swallowable gastric balloon?

Although the Swallowable Gastric Balloon is generally safe and well tolerated, there are risks, including:

  • Nausea and vomiting: Discomfort may occur for 3-4 days while the body adjusts to the procedure.
  • Changes in bowel habits: Constipation or diarrhea may occur during the adjustment period.
  • Acid reflux: Can be improved by following advice on food choices and eating habits.
  • Irritation in the stomach: In rare cases, you may experience stomach irritation or ulceration.
  • Balloon displacement: Very unlikely risk of intestinal obstruction may occur.

Some side effects that require immediate medical attention include:

  • Constant nausea
  • Severe vomiting
  • Inability to pass gas and constipation
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Dehydration
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Severe cramps
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Fever
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Any other unexpected symptoms
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