A gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss procedure that involves placing a silicone balloon in the stomach, which is then filled with a saline solution to reduce appetite. While the procedure is considered safe, it does come with some risks. The most common risk associated with gastric balloon is that the balloon may deflate or burst. This can cause abdominal discomfort and nausea, and can also cause the contents of the balloon to spill into the stomach. In rare cases, the balloon may travel through the digestive tract and can cause an obstruction.
Another risk associated with gastric balloons is infection. This is usually due to improper procedure or poor aftercare. It can cause fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, the infection can spread and can be potentially life-threatening.
The procedure can also cause other gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers and bleeding. In some cases, the balloon can cause irritation to the stomach lining, which can lead to nausea and vomiting.
Other risks associated with gastric balloons include allergic reactions to the material used to make the balloon and an increase in the risk of gallstones. The balloon may also move from its original position, which can lead to further complications.
Read Also: Types of Weight-Loss Surgery
Can a gastric balloon burst?
Yes, a gastric balloon can burst. It is a rare occurrence, but it is possible for a gastric balloon to burst in the stomach due to a perforation or the balloon being overfilled. If a gastric balloon bursts, it could cause an obstruction in the stomach and lead to serious medical complications.
Read Also: What Are The Risks of Gastric Balloon
Who Cannoy have a gastric balloon?
A gastric balloon is a medical procedure in which a balloon is inserted into the stomach to reduce hunger, enabling a patient to eat less and lose weight. While the procedure is generally safe and effective, there are certain individuals who are not suitable candidates for the treatment.
The first group of people who cannot have a gastric balloon are those with a history of gastrointestinal problems. These include individuals who have had abdominal surgery, those with inflammatory bowel disease or who have ulcers. Patients with a history of gastric or intestinal bleeding, or other gastrointestinal diseases, are also not good candidates for the procedure.
In addition, individuals who have had previous weight loss surgery, such as gastric bypass or stomach stapling, are not good candidates for a gastric balloon. This is because previous weight loss surgery has already changed the anatomy of the stomach and may interfere with the balloon’s effectiveness.
Patients who have a body mass index (BMI) above 40 are also not suitable candidates for a gastric balloon. This is because individuals with a BMI above 40 are considered to be morbidly obese, which is a condition in which diet and exercise alone may not be enough to achieve weight loss.
Finally, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney or heart disease, or those who are pregnant, should not undergo the gastric balloon procedure. Patients with allergies to latex should also avoid the procedure, as the balloons are made from latex. While a gastric balloon is generally a safe and effective way to achieve weight loss, there are overall individuals who cannot have the procedure due to their medical history or current medical condition. It is important to discuss any potential risks with a doctor before undergoing the procedure.
What is the success rate of gastric balloon?
The gastric balloon is a minimally invasive weight loss procedure that provides a temporary solution to help people lose weight. During the procedure, a medical professional will insert a deflated balloon into the patient’s stomach. The balloon is then filled with a saline solution and left in place for a period of six months. The idea is that the balloon will take up space in the stomach, making the patient feel fuller faster, and therefore eat less.
Studies have shown that the gastric balloon is an effective form of weight loss. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, researchers found an average of gastric balloon patients lost 8.7% of their body weight. This is in comparison to the 2.3% lost by those in the control group.
The long-term success rate of the gastric balloon is also promising. In another study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology researchers, found that patients who underwent the procedure had an average weight loss of 8.7% at one year follow-up and 7.1% at two years follow-up.
The gastric balloon is a safe and effective weight loss procedure for those who are looking for a short-term solution. However, it’s important to note that the procedure is only effective if the patient is willing to make lifestyle changes and commit to healthy eating and exercise habits.
Overall, the success rate of the gastric balloon is highly encouraging. With proper follow-up and lifestyle changes, it can provide a successful outcome and help people take control of their health.
Is gastric balloon permanent?
The answer is no. The gastric balloon is not a permanent solution to weight loss. It is intended to be used as a temporary measure to help people lose weight quickly. It works by taking up space in the stomach, making the patient feel full faster. This helps them eat less and lose weight over a period of time. The balloon is usually inserted into the stomach through a thin tube, and it is typically left in place for six months or less.
While the gastric balloon is not a permanent solution to weight loss, it can be an effective tool for those who need to lose a significant amount of weight quickly. Studies have shown that those who use the balloon can lose up to 15-20% of their body weight in the first six months. However, the weight loss can only be sustained if the patient makes lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
