No Endoscopy - No Anaesthesia - No Surgery. Outpatient Balloon
The Allurion Balloon is revolutionising the way that people approach weight loss. By combining the power of gastric balloon technology with the convenience and safety of a swallowable capsule, the Allurion Balloon offers an innovative and effective approach to weight loss.
The Allurion Balloon is a swallowable capsule that contains a balloon that is inflated with a saline solution once it is in the stomach. This balloon takes up space in the stomach, reducing the amount of food that can be eaten and reducing the amount of calories that are consumed. The balloon is designed to stay in the stomach for up to six months before it is naturally passed through the digestive system.
Unlike other gastric balloons, the Allurion Balloon is non-invasive and does not require any surgical procedures. It is easy to swallow and is made from biocompatible materials that are specifically designed to be safe for the body. The capsule is also designed to be easily passed through the digestive system, so there is no need for any follow-up procedures or for the balloon to be removed.
The aim is to reduce the risk of the conditions that obesity is associated with as mentioned above. It also reduces risk of stroke, of liver diseases and a number of other conditions known to be caused by obesity. The intragastric balloon is not a solution for every obese person, so let’s talk about the candidates for this routine.
Candidates for gastric balloon
To be a candidate, the patient
•Must have a BMI (Body Mass Index) of higher than 27.
•Has not undergone prior stomach or oesophageal surgery.
•Is willing to commit to a change in habits and lifestyle involving healthy eating and exercise;
•Will undergo future medical check-ups.
How long will I be in hospital?
Insertion of the Allurion Balloon does not require any anaesthesia, surgery or endoscopy. The balloon is swallowed as a capsule, and once position is confirmed by X-ray it is inflated. A second X-ray confirms adequate inflation of the balloon. The entire process takes less than an hour.
Diet After the Weight Loss Balloon
Following the procedure, the patient may only ingest liquids (initially clear) in the first week and up to the start of the second. This may begin around 6 hours after the intragastric balloon has been inserted. Soft foods can be eaten from the middle of the second week, with most patients back to eating regular food after three weeks.
The Allurion Balloon does not require removal.
It is designed to remain in the stomach for up to four months and then pass naturally.
Dr. Gaurav Bansal - Laparoscopic, Laser & Bariatric Surgeon