Intragastric balloon in the treatment of patients with morbid obesity

Abstract

Abstract Background Morbid obesity is a major health problem. This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of an intragastric balloon (IGB) for the treatment of morbid obesity. Methods Sixty-nine IGBs were inserted endoscopically over a 3-year period in 63 consecutive patients (59 women; median age 41 (range 24–67) years). Median weight and body mass index were 124·5 (range 89·0–177·8) kg and 46·3 (range 36·2–72·4) kg/m2 respectively. Significant coexistent disease was present in 34 patients. Median American Society of Anesthesiologists score was 3 (range 1–4). Data were recorded following retrospective review of patient case notes. Results Mean operating time was 22 (range 15–30) min and median inpatient stay was 1 (range 1–6) day. Vomiting was the commonest early complication following 31 procedures and necessitated early removal of four IGBs. Of 58 patients with long-term follow-up, 18 suffered displacement of the IGB after at least 6 months in situ and three required a laparotomy for intestinal obstruction. Fifty patients (86 per cent) lost weight; median weight loss was 15·0 kg (P < 0·001). Median excess weight loss was 16·4 (range − 49·0 to +4·8) and 18·7 (range −51·5 to 12·6) per cent by 4 and 7 months after IGB insertion respectively. Conclusion The IGB represents a useful device for the treatment of morbid obesity, particularly in preparation for definitive antiobesity procedures. Early IGB replacement is essential to minimize complications.