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Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty for Weight Loss
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As the physical, emotional, and economic costs mount, many are searching desperately for sustainable weight loss solutions. Amidst the workout plans and restrictive diets, a new class of minimally invasive endoscopic procedures offers renewed hope for those struggling with obesity.
As the physical, emotional, and economic costs mount, many are searching desperately for sustainable weight loss solutions. Amidst the workout plans and restrictive diets, a new class of minimally invasive endoscopic procedures offers renewed hope for those struggling with obesity.
Understanding Endoscopic Weight Loss Procedures
Endoscopic procedures represent cutting-edge, non-surgical techniques for weight loss. An endoscope is inserted through the mouth allowing doctors to access the digestive system to implant devices or reshape the stomach without external incisions. Two such procedures have risen in popularity due to their minimally invasive nature, high success rates, and full or partial insurance coverage.
Gastric Balloon
The gastric balloon is a soft, deflated silicone balloon implanted in the stomach through an endoscope. Once implanted, it is filled with saline solution to take up space in the stomach, limiting food intake and inducing early satiety to promote weight loss. Studies show patients losing 10-15% of excess weight with the balloon over 6 months. The balloons are then removed endoscopically. This reversible procedure is now widely available across the country.
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)
ESG reduces stomach size from the inside using an endoscopic suturing device to fold and stitch tissue. This sculpting creates a sleeve-shaped, banana-sized stomach pouch. Patients thus feel fuller faster, aiding in weight loss. The minimally invasive nature, reduced risk profile and clinical results are making ESG an increasingly adopted option for sustainable weight loss, with many specialist clinics now offering the procedure.
Who Qualifies for Endoscopic Weight Loss Procedures?
Endoscopic weight loss procedures may be appropriate for those struggling to lose weight through other means who:
Have a BMI between 30 to 40 – If higher, bariatric surgery may be recommended instead
Do not have complicating health conditions prohibiting anesthesia
Are willing to make lifestyle changes to maximize results
Patients should consult board-certified bariatric specialists to determine candidacy based on complete medical history and weight loss goals. Your doctor can advise which endoscopic option may be most suitable. Those with a BMI under 30 may also be candidates for some endoscopic procedures and should consult a specialist to explore options.
What Results Can Patients Expect?
Endoscopic weight loss procedures enable significant weight loss of up to 29% of excess weight over 12 months per clinical studies. Patients can expect to lose 1–2 pounds per week on average. Many are able to reduce or eliminate obesity-related medications like insulin as health improves.
While endoscopic procedures are less invasive, results still require commitment to lifestyle changes. Your doctor will provide nutritional guidelines and recommend increasing physical activity to promote sustained results. Participating in support groups can also help patients stick to healthy habits long-term.
Preparing for an Endoscopic Weight Loss Procedure
The preparation process will depend on the specific type of endoscopic procedure being performed. Patients will typically need to:
Get medical clearance from their primary care doctor
Undergo required lab tests to assess health markers
Have a consultation with the bariatric specialist performing the procedure
Follow dietary restrictions and guidelines in the weeks prior
Arrange a ride home and plan for 1-2 days of rest post-procedure
During consultations, your doctor will provide all preparatory instructions to maximize safety and promote optimal outcomes. Strictly adhering to their directions is vital.
Recovering from an Endoscopic Weight Loss Procedure
Patients can expect some nausea, stomach pain and cramping as the digestive system adjusts in the first 1-2 weeks following their procedure. Doctors prescribe medication to alleviate discomfort. Patients should stick closely to the postoperative diet, eating only soft foods for 2-3 weeks with small, frequent meals.
Most patients can return to normal activities within a week but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 4 weeks post-procedure. Follow-up monitoring appointments allow doctors to check progress, provide additional guidance, and address any complications.
Accessing Endoscopic Weight Loss Procedures
The number of clinics specializing in endoscopic bariatric procedures is expanding across the country. Ask your primary care doctor for referrals to reputed weight loss specialists and bariatric surgeons in your state or region. Researched patient reviews online can further help identify well-regarded endoscopic weight loss clinics.
Many major insurers now cover endoscopic weight loss procedures either fully or partially. Make sure to verify your benefits and if pre-authorization is needed when scheduling a consultation. With over 100 million adults now eligible for zero-cost preventative health screenings and services under Medicare, endoscopic obesity treatment is now accessible to more people than ever before.
Aftercare & Long-Term Considerations
After the procedure, patients will need to stick closely to nutritional guidelines and advised lifestyle changes to meet weight loss goals. Follow-up monitoring, lab work, and even additional procedures may be needed. These considerations are important when evaluating costs.
While the results can seem dramatic initially, maintaining long-term weight loss involves commitment to such changes well after the endoscopic procedure itself. By establishing new fitness and eating routines, patients give themselves the best chance of keeping weight off permanently. Ongoing accountability to bariatric specialists and peer support groups is key.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any medical procedure, potential side effects need to be weighed carefully when considering endoscopic options. Risks include:
Nausea, vomiting, cramping during initial adjustment period
Stomach/chest pain, ulcers if dietary guidelines not followed
Balloon deflation or migration in rare cases, requiring early removal
Infection or suture failure with ESG potentially necessitating surgery
Serious complications are rare when procedures are completed by reputed bariatric specialists. Still patients should follow all pre-op and post-op directions closely to prevent issues.
A Viable Option for Long-Term Weight Loss
Endoscopic solutions represent the latest innovation in long-term weight loss for obesity. Their minimally invasive nature, reduced risk, and clinical effectiveness make gastric balloons and ESG viable options for a growing segment of the population. As specialist networks grow and insurance coverage rises, endoscopic procedures can offer new hope for those ready to take charge of their health. Consult experienced bariatric specialists to learn if endoscopic weight loss treatment is the right path forward for your health goals.
