Gastric Balloon
Rubicon Medical can offer a treatment for obesity - the non-surgical BiB� Intragastric balloon system. The programme offers an alternative to more complex major surgery such as gastric bypass and stomach stapling operations.
The BiB intragastric balloon programme involves a deflated 'balloon' being inserted orally and placed in the patient's stomach. To do this, a Consultant will use an endoscope (a special tube-like instrument).
Once in the stomach the balloon is filled with a sterile saline solution and the endoscope is withdrawn.
A feeling of fullness is induced thus reducing appetite. The balloon usually remains in the stomach for 3 - 6 months, during which time the patient has a feeling of satiety (lack of hunger) and undergoes a supervised programme of treatments such as a diet regime, exercise programme and behaviour modification/counselling sessions which are an integral part of the programme serving to aid long-term weight loss.
The procedure is intended for obese (BMI of 30+) people who have difficulty in losing weight. Ideal candidates are generally between 30 and 35 BMI but satisfactory results may be achieved in those of higher BMI. |
