Aspiration therapy for obesity; a safe and effective treatment

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the novel AspireAssist® Aspiration Therapy System for treatment of obesity, and its effect on patient’s quality of life. METHODS: A prospective observational study with 25 obese subjects, mean age 48 years (range 33–65), was performed. A custom gastrostomy tube (A-tube, Aspire Bariatrics) was percutaneously inserted during a gastroscopy performed under conscious sedation. Drainage and irrigation of the stomach were performed 3 times daily, 20 min after each meal, for 1–2 years. Efficient aspiration required thorough chewing of ingested food. Treatment included a cognitive behavioral weight loss program. RESULTS: Mean body mass index (BMI) at inclusion was 39.8 kg/m(2) (range 35–49). After 1 year mean (SD) BMI was 32.1 kg/m(2) (5.4), p < 0.01, and excess weight loss was 54.4% (28.8), p < 0.01. Quality of life, as measured with EQ-5D, improved from 0.73 (0.27) to 0.88 (0.13), p < 0.01. After 2 years BMI was 31.0 kg/m(2) (5.1), p < 0.01, and excess weight loss was 61.5% (28.5), p < 0.01. There were no serious adverse events or electrolyte disorders. Compliance was 80% after 1 year and 60% after 2 years. CONCLUSIONS: Aspiration therapy is an efficient and safe treatment for obesity, and weight reduction improves quality of life. Excess weight was approximately halved in a year, with weight stability if treatment was continued. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Trial Register ISRCTN 49958132. Retrospectively registered 28/02/2014.