Endoscopic Intragastric Balloon (EIB)
The balloon partially fills the stomach and limits food intake. Patients report that they have an enduring feeling of satiety. The procedure does not require surgery and is done in a day-care setting.
The gastric balloon consists of soft, well-tolerated silicone that is filled with a sterile saline solution (salt water). The filled gastric balloon creates a sense of satiety. The balloon is generally removed after a maximum of six months.
Typical Patient for the Endoscopic Intragastric Baloon Implantation
- patient with BMI 30-70
-
patient who
- does not accept a surgical procedure
- wants a temporary (6 months max.) treatment
- is well-motivated (accepts diet and psychological criteria)
- is no sweet eater
- is no binge (volume) eater
- is no stress eater
- accepts after-care program
- accepts a temporary implant in the stomach
- has no heartburn
- has no poorly-stabilized diabetes type II
Advantages
- the patient feels satiety
- the patient loses more weight on average than with other diet programmes
- the patient is supported by a team of medical experts
- the patient learns how to sustain weight loss
- the patient appreciates the advantages of a non-surgical and non-pharmacological approach
Disadvantages
- the procedure is only for 6 months
- some patient do not tolerate restrictive procedures
- nausea and vomiting, especially in the beginning
- strict diet and exercise programme
- low cost/effectiveness ratio
How is the balloon inserted into the stomach?
The unfilled gastric balloon is inserted into the stomach through the mouth and oesophagus with the aid of an endoscopic camera. The physician will advise you whether the procedure should be conducted under local or general anaesthesia. Using a fluid supply tube, the gastric balloon is then filled and the tube removed. The insertion of the gastric balloon takes between 20 to 30 minutes. You will be able to return home after an appropriate period of recovery.
How long will the gastric balloon remain in the stomach?
A maximum of six months. The physician ultimately determines on the basis of your weight loss how soon the balloon can be removed.
How is the gastric balloon removed from the stomach?
An endoscopic camera is once again introduced into the stomach through the oesophagus. The gastric balloon is then punctured, deflated, grasped with forceps and removed.
How much weight will I lose?
You can lose between 15 and 25 kg. Essentially, weight loss depends on your discipline and the extent to which you adhere to the diet.
What side effects might be associated with gastric balloon insertion?
The most likely complaints are vomiting and nausea, which may occur during the early stages. Please consult your treating physician about any risks involved
After Implantation
After surgery, the patient must follow special diets and vitamin intake to lose weight in a controlled manner.
Supplementation after EIB:
* Multivit+minerals: 1 tab. per Day
* Biotin, Selenium, Vitamin B9 (B11), Zink: In case of hair problems
Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcome Score – BAROS
before implantation and after explantation
Standard Medication after Operation
* PPI: 20mg, 0-0-1 (3-6 Months)
Sport and physical activity
Three weeks after operation - 3 hours of physical activity per week but under sport medical supervision and medical advice.
