Gastric balloon is a type of treatment method that is used in treating weight loss. Gastric balloon treatment, also known as intragastric balloon. It is an inflatable medical device that is placed in the stomach for a temporary basis to reduce weight, providing the feeling of fullness and limiting appetite. When diet, exercises, lifestyle changes have failed, and bariatric surgery treatment is not suitable for the patient then doctors suggest this treatment method to solve the problem of being overweight.

The period of placing the device is six months however it can also be placed for twelve months as well. The balloon is placed in the stomach via esophagus using endoscopy. It is an outpatient procedure that involves mild sedation. Once the balloon is placed in the stomach, it occupies the space and limits the food carrying capacity of the stomach. Hence, it limits your intake and helps you lose weight. When your goal of reducing weight is achieved in 12 months, the doctors remove the balloon from your stomach.

Types of Gastric Balloon

Here are the common types of intragastric balloon:

Single Intragastric Balloon: It is an one balloon placed in the stomach, filled with saline, aids you to make full, helps in weight loss for six month period.
Dual Intragastric Balloon: These are two balloons linked by a tube, which increases weight loss potential in individuals.
Orbera Intragastric Balloon: This type of soft silicone balloon placed in the stomach through an endoscopy procedure for reducing appetite.
Obalon Balloon System: These swallow-able capsules with balloons, inflated in the stomach and removed after six months when an individual has achieved weight loss.
Elipse Balloon: It is also a capsule with a self-emptying balloon swallowed. It passes naturally in four months.

Who is Eligible for Gastric Balloon Treatment?

The treatment is surely beneficial for individuals but not all candidates are suitable for it. Here mentioned eligibility criteria to avail this treatment:

A patient must have a BMI (body mass index) rate between 30 to 40.
Those who are facing setbacks in reducing weight through dieting, exercises, and medications.
Candidates having other health concerns like diabetes, sleep apnea, joint pain, depression, and hypertension due to obesity.
Those individuals who want to cut the body mass before going for an operation to reduce the chances of risks.

Gastric Balloon Benefits

Following are the benefits of availing gastric balloon treatment:

Effective weight loss without surgery
Improve overall health and well-being
Reduces risks of obesity-related health concerns
long-term weight management
Minimal impact on daily life

Side Effects of Gastric Balloon

Although gastric balloon is an effective treatment t0 treat weight loss in rare cases it can pose some risks. These are as follows:

Develop acid reflux
Balloon failure
Bowel obstruction
Chances of ulcer formation
Constipation
Diarrhea
Inflammation

Gastric Balloon Treatment Cost

The average cost of gastric balloon insertion is estimated at INR 2,40,000 to INR 3,50,000. However, it is not considered as final cost; the final cost of the treatment depends on various factors, including balloon type, doctors expertise, and the patient’s overall health condition. All these factors contribute to the final calculation of the treatment in India. Although it is an effective treatment method for obese who could not lose weight with the help of medication, exercise, lifestyle changes, etc.

Gastric Balloon Insertion Procedure

The insertion of gastric balloon is done in following steps:

Initially, a patient receives mild anesthesia to remain relaxed throughout the procedure.
After that, a doctor places an endoscope into the patient’s mouth via esophagus and inside the stomach.
In the meantime, the endoscope allows a camera and a deflated gastric balloon to reach the stomach.
Throughout the procedure, the healthcare provider uses a tiny camera to locate the location of the balloon.
Once the balloon is reached to its location then the doctor uses a catheter and syringe to fill the balloon with saline. When it is filled the balloon automatically seals.
Lastly, doctors remove the catheter and endoscope, leaving the balloon in your stomach.