Here’s the latest report from the obesity epidemic front. The Orange County Register is reporting that clinical trials are soon to begin on the intragastric balloon developed by ReShape Medical out of San Clemente, CA. The device, already approved in Europe, is inserted endoscopically using the ReShape delivery system into the stomach and then inflated with normal saline, effectively reducing the capacity and will of the patient to intake and digest food. Unlike gastric banding, the procedure is done on an outpatient basis and the device can be easily removed at a later time.
From the product page:
The delivery system is a long insertion catheter with the deflated balloons attached to the end. The balloons are inserted through the mouth, and filled with saline once it is placed in the stomach. The ReShape intragastric balloon is designed to fit comfortably in the stomach while maximally filling the stomach area.
The ReShape intragastric balloon is comprised of two balloons attached to each other by a flexible tube. Each balloon has independent channels so that unintentional leaks or deflation in one balloon are designed not to impact the other balloon. The device is used in conjunction with diet and exercise.
OC Register: Doctors to study stomach balloon for weight loss…
Product page: ReShape intragastric balloon…
Flashbacks: EndoBarrier, an Internal Condom, Gets Positive Results in Diabetic Clinical Trial ; EndoBarrier Bypasses Gastric Bypass for Obesity, Diabetes Treatment