What is a Gastric Balloon?
The goal of the gastric balloon procedure is to limit food intake by placing a water-filled balloon inside the patient’s stomach endoscopically and to lose weight thanks to this procedure. It is a procedure that must be taken into consideration because it severely limits nutrition and is a very easy method, but care must also be taken as it does not cause a change in the patient’s sense of hunger. Although it is a preferred method for the group of patients called super obese (overweight) in general, it is not classified as surgery. Since one
the balloon is placed in the stomach of the patient and this procedure is performed under anaesthesia, that is, half asleep, it is seen as a short, easy and effective method for a long time. Especially if patients have to undergo additional surgery for obesity in the future, the gastric balloon procedure is performed to lose weight before this procedure.
Is the Gastric Balloon suitable for everyone?
It is known as the choice of many patients who have a body mass index of around 27-35, who cannot adapt to another obesity surgery and who want to lose weight healthily. After calculating the total body weights and body mass indices of the patients, it is decided how long the gastric balloon will be used and then the procedure is carried out. Many studies have shown that patients can lose up to 20% of their body weight after this procedure. It is often preferred because it provides a very high amount of weight loss and at the same time gives patients many new health habits that will increase their living standards. Although the implementation of the procedure takes very little time, it is known that there is no need to stay in the hospital for long periods after the procedure. After the procedure, patients are expected to recover within 1 hour unless there is an unusual situation. Although the recovery of patients is monitored by doctors, this period can be extended if deemed necessary.
Concerns after the Gastric Balloon
Although patients’ concerns are generally the same, the intensity or number of their complaints may vary. While many patients report cramping and nausea, some patients also commonly complain of cramping and an uncomfortable feeling in the stomach after the gastric balloon procedure. Although the overall success of the procedure is about 90%, in some cases, even though there is no obstacle to placing the balloon, the patient’s body may reject it. In case of this refusal, patients are provided with supportive treatments. Although not a common situation, the balloon may be removed in cases where the patient’s body does not accept it or drug treatments do not work.
Risk factors after Gastric Balloon
Although it is a useful method after determining the suitability of the patients and after the insertion of the balloon, there are some potential risks. Many people wonder if the balloon, which is inserted into the stomach, has the possibility of bursting after it is inserted. After the application of the gastric balloon, even though the patient is attentive and cared for, in some cases, it has the possibility of being punctured. Although the gastric balloon does not burst, it can be punctured depending on the amount and speed of stomach acid and the patient’s eating habits. Although it is an object made of a strong silicone-based material, in some cases it is possible to pierce, but this is a very small percentage and possibility.
Is it possible to puncture the balloon?
Although it is very difficult to puncture the balloon, it is necessary to consult a doctor in such a case, since the colour of the urine will be blue thanks to the serum fluid. Depending on the state of the injury and the patient’s preference, the balloon can be removed completely or replaced with a new one. In case of final removal, the liquid in the gastric balloon is emptied first. After the evacuation process, the balloon material is removed by the endoscope and the patient returns to his normal life.
