Are There Risks with Gastric Balloon?
Are There Risks with Gastric Balloon?
Intragastric balloon is a non-surgical approach to treat obesity. It can be successful in patients who have been not been able to lose weight through traditional methods such as dieting or exercise. During the procedure here at Iranian Surgery, the balloon is implanted into the stomach through your mouth using an endoscope. The balloon is filled with saline to fill space in the stomach, giving you the feeling of fullness with less food. The implant is temporary and does not alter your anatomy.
Although this procedure offers less risk than bariatric surgery, and you may be eligible if you meet certain criteria, there are still certain risks associated with this procedure which you will read about in this article.
Potential Complications and Side Effects of Gastric Balloon
Most gastric balloon procedures are successful, but potential complications and side effects include:
Stomach discomfort, nausea and vomiting
You may feel some stomach discomfort after having your balloon inserted. Nausea and vomiting are very common in the first seven to ten days after gastric balloon insertion and this is simply because your stomach isn’t used to having it there. You’ll be discharged with medications to help settle any nausea and vomiting. If your stomach discomfort persists or if you’re struggling to hold fluids down after the first seven days then please contact our bariatric team.
Reduced stool volumes or frequency of bowel movements
This is common and usually relates to eating smaller amounts of food. Normal bowel movements can be anywhere between three times per day to three times per week.
If you’re constipated, make sure that you’re drinking enough between your meals and that you’re including fiber foods in your meals, such as vegetables, fruit, oats, brown rice, whole meal cereals, bread or pasta.
Heartburn and acid reflux
Heartburn and acid reflux is common in gastric balloon patients. Some foods can make it worse including coffee, alcohol, spicy and fatty foods.
Milk and dairy products may help with acid reflux. Make sure you choose low-fat varieties of all dairy products. Don’t lie down after meals. Medication can be prescribed.
Odor associated with belching/burping
Bad-smelling belching or burping can sometimes be a problem as your food gets stuck in and around the mucous that coats your gastric balloon. Chew your food well and try to move around as this stops food from getting stuck around the balloon. Take a sip of water 30 minutes after your meal to rinse off the balloon.
Feeling bloated
The balloon can make you feel bloated and it can stay for the full six months. This is common and is caused by the balloon itself, which is meant to help people feel full. Try to remember that the balloon is temporary and so the bloating is too and it’ll disappear when the balloon is removed. Medications can help relieve these symptoms.
Pain
You may experience some pain which can be caused if your esophagus or stomach is punctured whilst inserting the gastric balloon, although this is very rare. You may also feel pain from the inflation of the balloon; however, most people refer to this as more of a discomfort.
Rare complications can also occur, including deflation of the balloon. This may allow it to move or migrate into the intestine, which can result in bowel obstruction or blockage. Perforation of the stomach or bowel can also occur. With saline-filled balloons, acute pancreatitis is another rare, but very serious potential complication. These complications may require additional surgery or procedures.
Reducing Your Risk of Complications
You can reduce your risk of certain complications by:
. Following your doctor’s activity, dietary and lifestyle restrictions and recommendations before and after your surgery
. Informing your doctor if you are nursing or if there is any possibility of pregnancy
. Contacting your doctor right away in case of bleeding, fever, increase in pain, or other unexpected symptoms
. Telling all members of your care team if you have medication allergies
About Iranian Surgery
Iranian surgery is an online medical tourism platform where you can find the best doctors and surgeons in Iran. The price of Gastric Balloon Operation in Iran can vary according to each individual’s case and will be determined by an in-person assessment with the doctor.
For more information about the cost of Gastric Balloon Operation in Iran and to schedule an appointment in advance, you can contact Iranian Surgery consultants via WhatsApp number 0098 901 929 0946. This service is completely free.
Source:
https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/weight-loss-surgery/gastric-balloon
https://www.ramsayhealth.co.uk/weight-loss-surgery/gastric-balloon/medical-concerns