Introducation
The placement of an Allurion gastric balloon is a non- invasive technique that aims at filling a patient’s stomach with water. Muscle contractions formed when the filled stomach expands will create a sense of fullness in the patient and the procedure is mainly used to treat obesity. This article aims at outlining the pros and cons of the technique along with the breathing exercises and the recovery period.
The Procedure
The balloon insertion process is done on an out–patient basis and is a very simple procedure is that lasts for only thirty minutes.The procedure at our center is done by Dr. Kapil Agrawal who is one of the best bariatric surgeon in Delhi, India. Below is a stepwise guide on how the procedure is carried out:
The patient is given sufficient medication: In order to make the patient more comfortable and ease them in, the doctor will ensure that they are well sedated.
Inflation of The Balloon: The patient is sedated and/or put under local anesthesia, and the deflated balloon is inserted through a catheter and positioned in the stomach. Afterwards, the collar of the deflated balloon is inflated using saline solution creating a collar which will restrict muscle movements in the stomach.
Post- Procedure: These steps are followed by ensuring the patient’s safety and wellbeing is the utmost priority, in this case for 1-2 hours after the procedure. Once properly monitored and ensuring its been sufficient time, the intragastric process will be complete.
Benefits
The intragastric balloon proves to be extremely beneficial when it comes to weight loss maintaining:
Increased Portion Control: Due to occupying any space in the stomach, smaller meals will help aid in feeling full due to the balloon.
Weight Loss Assistance: This method has been shown to significantly help with weight loss and in turn also helps improve certain health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
Non-Invasive: Unlike going through bariatric surgery, this method has no cuts incisions which makes the method one of the safest out there.
Potential Side Effects
According to the methods and techniques being used, the procedure is regarded as to be safe. However at times certain patients do experience mild side effects during the beginning of the treatment such as:
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Abdominal Pain.
- Acid Reflux.
Follow-Up Care
Taking care after the procedure is extremely important as this will play a crucial part in the success of the treatment and aid in reducing any minor complications. It is advised that patients do the following:
Obey to a Certain Diet: Consult with a dietitian in order to come up with a proper diet that will make the balloon more effective.
Drink a lot of Water: Since dehydration can be an issue, it is best to drink an adequate amount of water.
Regular Check-Ups: Have a regular follow-up with the designated health care provider in order to make sure the method is working and losing weight is in progress.
Conclusion
It is clear that the intragastric balloon procedure can be considered an effective weight loss minimalist surgery as it is less risky than the most invasive bariatric surgery techniques. This is evident as well from the study’s findings, as the outcomes of the study show significant improvement in health outcomes related to quality of life. If you decide to go with the intragastric balloon, make sure you talk to a trained professional to see if it’s a good fit for your needs.