A Case Matched Comparison between Endoscopic Intragastric Botulinum Toxin-A Injection and Conventional Weight Loss Program

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionMild obesity can progress to more extreme forms of obesity if untreated, thus deserves early intervention. A new revolutionary treatment for mild obesity utilizes injecting the stomach with Botulinum Toxin-A. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic intragastric Botulinum Toxin-A injection for weight loss in patients with mild obesity compared to diet and exercise alone.MethodsPatients with mild obesity were recruited into a prospective case-matched study. The therapeutic group received Botulinum Toxin-A gastric injections in addition to dietary advice and regular exercise. The control group only received dietary advice and regular exercise. The measured outcomes were weight loss, quality of life, early satiety, procedure cost, and procedure complications.ResultsA total of 250 patients (matched for age, sex, weight, and comorbidities) were equally divided. Patients were followed up for a mean of six months. Mean Weight loss was better in the BTA group compared to the control group (10.8 versus 4.3 kg, P<0.001). Both groups enjoyed a comparable improvement in quality of life. No significant complications were observed in the series. The average cost per procedure was $1037 US dollars.ConclusionsEndoscopic intragastric Botulinum Toxin-A injection can be beneficial in treating mild obesity. It is minimally invasive, cost-effective, and without serious side effects.