What Is Gastric Balloon Operation
Gastric balloon in Turkey is a non-surgical procedure that aims to reduce weight by placing an intragastric balloon in the stomach. This balloon placement limits and reduces the amount of food the patient can eat. After the operation, since the patient feels full even after eating a small amount of food, he loses weight.
The gastric balloon procedure is an outpatient procedure that takes about an hour. It is a much simpler procedure compared to other bariatric surgeries, such as gastric sleeve or gastric bypass. There are three types of gastric balloon operation. Depending on the patient’s body weight and body mass index, the doctor determines the most suitable type of balloon. These types are:
- Orbera: A single deflated balloon is placed in the stomach and then filled with saline solution.
- Reshape: These are two balloons and are similar to Orbera.
- Obalon: It is introduced into the stomach through small capsules and filled with nitrogen gas.
The balloon is left in the stomach for six to nine months. The time is determined according to the weight of the patient.
Candidates For Gastric Balloon Operation
Gastric balloon surgery is a consideration for individuals seeking weight loss, yet it’s not universally suitable. Potential candidates include:
- Individuals afflicted by obesity with a tendency to accumulate excess fat.
- Those with a fat mass index ranging from 30 kg to 35 kg.
- Individuals without conditions like gastritis or ulcers that could complicate the procedure.
- Candidates should be at least 18 years old.
- Individuals without prior gastric or esophageal surgeries.
- People unable to achieve weight loss solely through diet and exercise.
Pre-Operative Advice For The Gastric Balloon
Prior to undergoing gastric balloon surgery, it’s important to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Refrain from eating and maintain a four-hour fasting period before the procedure.
- Provide your complete medical history to your doctor, including any existing medical conditions or medications being taken.
- Undergo any required X-ray examinations to ensure suitability and safety for the surgery.
- Avoid consuming blood thinners like certain vitamins, alcohol, or green tea.
- Cease smoking for at least one week leading up to the gastric balloon surgery.
Stages Of Gastric Balloon Operation
The gastric balloon procedure is conducted through several straightforward stages:
Initial Examination: The physician assesses the excess fat accumulation and determines the desired outcomes of the patient.
Patient Preparation: Medical personnel prepare the patient for the gastric balloon operation, administering local anesthesia and possibly a sedative to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Balloon Insertion: Using either the Orbera or Reshape method, the doctor places the balloon through the mouth using an endoscope. Alternatively, capsules are employed for the Obalon method.
Balloon Inflation: Depending on the method utilized, the balloon is filled with either saline solution (Orbera or Reshape) or nitrogen gas (Obalon).
Balloon Removal: The balloon remains in the stomach for six to nine months while the patient carries on with their daily activities. After this period, the doctor removes the balloon from the stomach.
Post-Operative Advice For The Gastric Balloon
Here are some rephrased instructions from the doctor for the patient undergoing gastric balloon surgery:
- After the gastric balloon procedure, adhere to a prescribed diet for optimal results.
- Ensure adequate hydration by drinking ample water both before and after meals following the insertion of the gastric balloon.
- Refrain from smoking for a minimum of two weeks post-procedure.
- Obtain the prescribed pain relief medication from the doctor to manage any discomfort effectively.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous activities following the procedure.
