Ingestible Gastric Balloon

The Ingestible Gastric Balloon is a soft balloon that is placed in the stomach through the mouth. It is the only gastric balloon that does not require surgery, endoscopy, or anesthesia for placement or removal.

Who is it suitable for?

Patients who need to lose between 8 kg and 15 kg.

How is it placed?

The patient swallows a capsule containing the deflated balloon, attached to a thin tube. Once the balloon’s position is confirmed by X-ray, it is filled with air through the catheter. The placement procedure takes about 20 minutes during a doctor’s visit. After inflation, the patient can go home without any discomfort.

Adverse effects?

The initial days with the ingestible balloon are similar to those of gastric balloons placed by endoscopy. The stomach takes approximately 48 hours to adjust to the foreign object. Nausea and discomfort may occur, but they are treated with specific medications and usually disappear within a few days.

How is it removed?

After about 3 months, a valve with a timer on the balloon opens, emptying it, and subsequently, it passes through the gastrointestinal tract without the need for any extraction procedure.

How long does the treatment last?

The treatment with the ingestible balloon is combined with a reeducation program that lasts a total of six months. With the help of an expert psychologist in eating disorders and a diet program specially designed by our nutritionist, the patient will have the support of the balloon for the first three months. Then, they will continue attending weight sessions, therapy, and scheduled ultrasound check-ups for an additional three months.