Types of intragastric balloon for weight loss
There are different types of intragastric balloon for weight loss. Some of them
have a fixed volume while others are adjustable. They may be inserted as single
or multiple and have different capacities , efficacy and lifespan in the body.
The main types of balloons are the following:-
- Orbera – This has been the most widely used balloon for weight loss worldwide.
It is a non adjustable balloon made up of silicone which has a volume of 500ml and
a maximum lifespan of 6 months. It has shown a weight loss efficacy of 10-12% of
total body weight in 4-6 months. It has an excellent safety profile with lowest
reported side effects.
- Spatz - It is the only adjustable intra gastric balloon for weight loss.
It has a volume of 300ml which can be increased to 700 ml in one or more stages.
The adjustability of the balloon increases its weight loss efficacy as claimed by
its developers and in limited studies this balloon has shown upto 40% excess weight
loss. This balloon also has the longest life of upto 12 months.
- Obalon - It is a gas filled balloon which can be swallowed like a capsule
and doesn’t require endoscopy for insertion. Two or three balloons can be swallowed
consecutively at intervals of 2-3 months to augment weight loss.
- Reshape - It is a dumbbell shaped balloon for weight loss and is inserted
via endoscopy like the orbera and spatz balloons.
- Allurion - It is the latest balloon for weight loss which is packed inside
a capsule like cover. It is swallowed and then inflated by means of a small catheter
connected to the balloon under fluoroscopic guidance. It is inflated with 400 ml
of saline and it has a timed valve which opens after 16 weeks allowing the balloon
to deflate and then be excreted via faeces. It is the balloon which is the least
invasive method of insertion and probably offering the most comfort to the patient.
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