Summary
The gastric balloon is the least invasive measure of stomach reduction. The intragastric balloon is inserted into the stomach through the mouth, through the esophagus and filled with saline solution. This is done in the same way as a gastroscopy using an endoscope.
The patient is also lightly sedated and does not remember it after the procedure. The stomach is also pre-filled and the feeling of hunger sets in earlier when eating. However, the gastric balloon is not a permanent solution and is removed after 6 months.
Otherwise, there is a risk that the intragastric balloon will burst and thus cause complications. The intragastric balloon is therefore a good option if you do not need to lose as much weight or in preparation for surgery, as any weight loss before surgery reduces the risks of the same. However, it has not been proven that the intragastric balloon is a better way to lose weight than a behavioral change.
Likewise, too little fluid intake leads to disturbances of the water and salt balance in the body. Many patients report nausea and more frequent vomiting. There are also more frequent cases of stomach ulcers after insertion of a stomach balloon.
If the intragastric balloon bursts, the balloon can move into the intestine and cause an intestinal obstruction (ileus). In order to reduce or at least detect this complication at an early stage, the fluid in the balloon is stained (methyl blue) so that if the balloon bursts, the urine would turn blue. In this case, the balloon would have to be removed immediately by a doctor.
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