In search of the ideal patient for the intragastric balloon – short- and long-term results in 70 obese patients

INTRODUCTION: Treating concomitant diseases in obese patients generates costs which are twice as high as the costs of the therapies in individuals with a normal weight. The conservative management of obesity involving lifestyle and dietary modifications and medical treatment shows only short-term efficacy and carries a 90% risk of recurrence. The intragastric balloon causes a permanent feeling of satiety, thus reducing the amount of food consumed by the patient. AIM: To assess the early and long-term effect of intragastric balloon treatment in obese patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In 2012, we performed 75 intragastric balloon procedures in obese patients. A total of 70 patients were enrolled in the study. The balloon was removed at 6 months. The patients were interviewed 2 years after removal. RESULTS: Upon balloon removal, mean total weight loss (TWL) was 15.9 kg, and excess weight loss (EWL) was 41 ±19.6% (p < 0.001). Only one patient was classified as a non-respondent. Satisfactory results (> 10% TWL) were achieved in all other patients. The mean body mass index (BMI) reduction was 5.8 kg/m(2) (15.5%) (p < 0.001). Two years later 45 patients still maintained reduced weight, 7 returned to baseline body weight, whereas 18 subjects experienced a full yo-yo effect (mean gain of 2.7 kg). During 2 years following the balloon removal, mean total weight increased by 10.9 kg, and mean BMI increased by 3.9 kg/m(2) (12.5%). A satisfactory effect (> 10% TWL) was achieved in only 19 patients. CONCLUSIONS: Obesity management with the intragastric balloon is a safe treatment method, which effectively induces weight loss. Poor tolerance and lack of response occurring in some individuals should be taken into consideration. The best results are achieved in women with class 1 obesity.