Choosing to undergo weight loss surgery is a significant and deeply personal decision. For those...
Read MoreInspira has partnered with Orbera®, the pioneer in intragastric balloon technology, to provide patients with a safe, non-surgical option when other weight loss methods have failed.
What is Endoscopic Intragastric Balloon Placement?
This type of weight loss procedure uses a soft, saline-filled balloon to take up space in your stomach, allowing your body to slow the digestive process. Intragastric balloon placement also encourages you to practice portion control in order to retrain your brain to better anticipate when you’re getting full.
Endoscopic intragastric balloon placement is non-invasive and temporary—the balloon is removed after six months. This procedure is proven to result in more weight loss than diet and exercise alone.
How Does Endoscopic Intragastric Balloon Placement Work?
During an intragastric balloon placement procedure, your doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube through your esophagus in order to place the balloon directly into your stomach. After it’s placed in your stomach, it is filled with saline. The balloon takes up room in your stomach, allowing your body to slow the digestive process and for you to feel full faster.
The balloon stays in your stomach for six months and is then removed using a similar endoscopy procedure, which is why following the procedure with diet and exercise is key to lasting results.
What to Expect When You Have an Intragastric Balloon Placement
In order to qualify for intragastric balloon placement, you must attend at least one information session and meet with a bariatric specialist to determine your eligibility. If you have a BMI between 30 and 40 and haven’t been able to lose weight with diet and exercise alone, this procedure may be an option for you.
After a few diagnostic tests and pre-surgery counseling, your procedure will be scheduled. The balloon will be placed into your stomach during an outpatient procedure that lasts about 30-40 minutes. While the balloon is in place, you’ll work with your doctor, dietitian and support team to fine-tune your diet and exercise routine. After six months, the balloon will be removed during a similar procedure that takes about 20 minutes to complete. You will also be required to meet with a registered dietitian monthly for a full year, both while the balloon is inserted and then continue with nutrition counseling for 6 months after the procedure to maintain your health goals.
