Intragastric Balloon in the Treatment of Patients with Morbid Obesity

Background: Morbid obesity is a major health problem. This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of an intragastric balloon (IGB) for the treatment of morbid obesity.

Methods: Sixty-nine IGBs were inserted endoscopically over a 3-year period in 63 consecutive patients (59 women; median age 41 (range 24-67) years). Median weight and body mass index were 124.5 (range 89.0-177.8) kg and 46.3 (range 36.2-72.4) kg/m(2) respectively. Significant coexistent disease was present in 34 patients. Median American Society of Anesthesiologists score was 3 (range 1-4). Data were recorded following retrospective review of patient case notes.

Results: Mean operating time was 22 (range 15-30) min and median inpatient stay was 1 (range 1-6) day. Vomiting was the commonest early complication following 31 procedures and necessitated early removal of four IGBs. Of 58 patients with long-term follow-up, 18 suffered displacement of the IGB after at least 6 months in situ and three required a laparotomy for intestinal obstruction. Fifty patients (86 per cent) lost weight; median weight loss was 15.0 kg (P < 0.001). Median excess weight loss was 16.4 (range - 49.0 to + 4.8) and 18.7 (range - 51.5 to 12.6) per cent by 4 and 7 months after IGB insertion respectively.

Conclusion: The IGB represents a useful device for the treatment of morbid obesity, particularly in preparation for definitive antiobesity procedures. Early IGB replacement is essential to minimize complications.