Gastric balloon types vary according to many factors such as inflated with liquid or air, swallowed, 6-12 months. For gastric balloon application, the patient's suitability for this procedure should be evaluated. The gastric balloon is selected according to the patient's condition and the weight he/she wants to lose. Gastric balloon; By reducing the volume of the stomach, it helps to increase the feeling of satiety and facilitate weight loss.
What Determines the Types of Gastric Balloon?
Gastric balloon types; It is determined according to the way the balloon is placed, the way it is inflated, how long it will stay in the stomach. It is divided into types such as inflated with air or liquid, placed or swallowed, short or long term. There are also many brands for gastric balloons.
According to the way the balloon is placed; It is divided into endoscopic or swallowed gastric balloon.
According to the way the balloon is inflated; It can be inflated with air or liquid.
According to the duration of stay in the stomach; It can be said for 6 months or 12 months.
Who Can Gastric Balloon Be Applied to?
Gastric balloon is a non-surgical method applied in the treatment of obesity. A balloon placed in the stomach helps to eat less and lose weight by reducing stomach volume. It remains temporarily and the weight lost during this period is tried to be maintained after the balloon is removed.
The gastric balloon can be applied to people with the following characteristics:
People with a body mass index (BMI) between 30-40
People who cannot lose weight with diet and exercise
People with obesity-related health problems (high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, etc.)
People between the ages of 18-65
It is not recommended for pregnant women, people with serious illnesses, people with an addiction or people who have had surgery on their stomach.
Swallowable Gastric Balloon
Swallowable gastric balloon is a procedure that does not require surgical and interventional procedures and is performed by swallowing the capsule with a glass of water. After swallowing, it creates a feeling of satiety as it takes up space in the stomach. It reduces appetite by slowing down the rate of passage of food through the stomach.
The swallowable gastric balloon is tightened in capsule form. The capsule is swallowed by the patient with a glass of water and sent to the stomach. It is inflated with special fluid through a catheter. This balloon stays in the stomach for about 4.5 months. During this time, the patient loses weight through diet and exercise. No procedure is required to remove the balloon from the stomach. When the balloon expires, it is naturally excreted from the body with feces.
6 Month Gastric Balloon
The6-month gastric balloon is placed endoscopically in the upper part of the stomach. It stays in the stomach for 6 months. An endoscopic procedure is required to insert and remove it from the stomach. Diet and exercise are required for 6 months after the balloon is inserted. Side effects such as cramps and nausea may occur during the insertion and removal processes. For this reason, it can be considered disadvantageous, but it is a preferred procedure both in terms of price and the small amount of weight to be lost.
1 Year Gastric Balloon
The1-year gastric balloon is placed in the stomach by endoscopic methods. Staying in the stomach for 1 year is a useful method for people with excess weight to be lost. It is a suitable procedure for people with a BMI between 27 and 30. For 1 year, the balloon stays in the stomach and the person feels the need to eat less. At the same time, this weight loss should be supported with a good diet list and exercise.
Adjustable Gastric Balloon
Adjustable gastric balloon refers to the ability to adjust the volume of the balloon placed in the stomach according to the need. The balloon placed in the stomach is inflated with liquid or gas. It allows the patient to increase or decrease the volume of the balloon according to their weight loss goals and tolerance. With the help of endoscopy, the balloon is inserted and removed. It usually stays in the stomach for 1 year. Its volume is adjusted by endoscopy. It can be used for people with a BMI level of 30 and above.
How is Gastric Balloon Insertion Procedure Performed?
Thegastric balloon placement process varies according to the type of balloon. Except for the swallowable gastric balloon, other types are performed endoscopically. In the endoscopic procedure, the patient is given general anesthesia and a device called an endoscope is advanced through the patient's mouth into the stomach. The balloon inside the endoscope is inserted into the stomach and inflated with the appropriate amount of liquid or air. This device is removed from the stomach and the patient is kept under observation for a few hours. The gastric balloon usually remains in the stomach for 6-12 months. After this time, the balloon is removed endoscopically.
Which Department Should I Apply to for Gastric Balloon Procedure?
Forthe gastric balloon procedure , it is necessary to apply to obesity or general surgery clinics. The bariatric surgery specialist evaluates whether you are suitable for the gastric balloon procedure. Performs the necessary examinations. For this procedure, which takes place in a short time, you should definitely seek help from a reliable and specialized doctor. You can contact Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Op. Dr. Türker Karabuğa to get information about gastric balloon.