General

How Does the Intra Gastric Balloon Work?

The balloon fills a large portion of the stomach, and therefore reducing the capacity of the stomach. This creates a feeling of fullness for the patient and does not allow for overeating, therefore allowing the patient to effectively diet without feeling continuously hungry.

How Is the Intra Gastric procedure performed?

The balloon is introduced into the stomach through the mouth without the need for surgery. The physician inserts an endoscopic camera (gastroscope) into the stomach. If no abnormalities are observed, the physician proceeds with the placement of the balloon through the mouth and down the oesophagus into the stomach. Once the balloon is inside the stomach, it is filled with sterile saline through a small filling tube attached to the balloon. Once filled, the doctor removes the tube by gently pulling on the external end, leaving the balloon inside the stomach.

A qualified specialist gastroenterologist performs this procedure in conjunction with an anaesthetist and trained nursing staff. The team at Gastric Balloon Australia offer this procedure at several day surgeries and private hospitals throughout the Sydney metropolitan area.

Placement of the balloon takes approximately take 20 minutes, after which you will be monitored by specialist nursing staff in the recovery bay. As this is a “day-only” procedure, you can generally be escorted home within two hours after balloon insertion.

Who is the Intra Gastric suitable for?

The Intra Gastric Balloon is designed to assist with weight loss in people who ideally have 15-40 kilograms of weight to loose, or those individuals with a BMI of >28.

It is also used for people considered too overweight or at increased risk for vital surgery. The use of the Gastric Balloon may assist in reducing weight prior to surgery, therefore reducing the risks associated with surgical procedures on overweight patients.

At Gastric Balloon Australia, each individual’s suitability is assessed as those with BMI’s > 40 may also benefit from this procedure.

How long is does the Gastric Balloon stay in the stomach

The Intra Gastric Balloon can be placed in the stomach for a six month period. Over time the acidic content of the stomach can weaken the balloon material and cause it to deflate. Should your physician recommend use of the balloon for longer than six months, it is necessary that the balloon be replaced with a new one when the six-month interval has been met.

While you are using the balloon, your physician may prescribe a course of oral medication to reduce your stomach acid (this may reduce the possibility of stomach irritation and damage to the balloon).

What Happens if the Intra Gastric Balloon Deflates Spontaneously?

Your physician will place a coloured dye inside the balloon called Methelyene Blue. This will help you clearly identify early deflation or leakage, as it will change the colour of your urine, to that of green.

The balloon is small enough that it may pass through the intestines and leave the body naturally, but there have been some cases in which it has had to be removed from the bowel surgically. If you suspect a deflation, you must notify your physician immediately.

How Will the Intra Gastric System Balloon Be Removed?

The Gastric Balloon is removed in the same way it was placed, via the oesophagus and mouth.. Using an endoscopic camera, the physician will introduce a catheter through the mouth and into the stomach. The balloon will then be punctured and deflated. Once the balloon is deflated it can be grasped and removed.

How Much Weight Will I Lose with the Intra Gastric Balloon?

It is important for you to understand that the Gastric Balloon is a tool to aid weight loss and must be used in conjunction with a diet, exercise and a behaviour modification program. The amount of weight you loose and maintain, will depend on how closely you follow your diet amd adopt long-term lifestyle changes.

What Unpleasant Effects Are Possible with the Intra Gastric Balloon?

It is very likely that the presence of the balloon in the stomach will cause nausea or vomiting for a few days after placement. Your physician will prescribe medication to help minimise these potential effects, but these can persist during the first week.

There exists the possibility that you will lose only a small amount of weight or lose no weight at all while using the balloon. Of course, as stated earlier, your commitment to dietary and behavioural changes is a pivotal factor in the outcome.

There is also the chance that unhealthy, uncontrolled weight loss will occur and create adverse health consequences. Be sure to speak with your physician about this.

Will I be able to feel the balloon in my stomach?

A: There will be discomfort during the first few days. After that, the primary sensation of the Gastric Balloon is a feeling of satiety.

How long will it take to recover after the procedure?

You should plan at least three days of inactivity to recover from the procedure. You will be able to resume normal activity sooner or later than this depending on how quickly your body adjusts to the Balloon

Does the Intra Gastric Balloon require frequent visits to my doctor after the procedure?

The follow-up program is critical to success of the balloon and in learning new lifestyle skills. You will meet with the lifestyle team at least monthly while the balloon is in place. During this time your progress will be evaluated and you will learn valuable principles of health, nutrition, and exercise that will provide you a foundation for long-term success.

Does the Gastric Balloon limit activity?

The first week you should not plan any heavy activity. Once your body has adjusted to the balloon you can continue your normal activities. Starting a regular exercise program is highly recommended and will improve your success.

Can I drink alcohol?

Alcohol in moderation is fine.

Can I eat anything I want? Are there any food restrictions?

You will not feel like eating as much as you used to. In addition, if you eat fatty foods or sweets, you may feel sick. Excessive overeating while the balloon is in place can be dangerous and can result in a serious medical condition.