Impact on Obesity-Related Illnesses and Quality of Life Following Intragastric Balloon

The impact of intragastric balloon (IGB) on obesity-related illnesses and quality of life (QOL) has not been previously investigated.

One hundred and nineteen consecutive obese patients (86 females; mean age 37.8; mean body weight (BW) 103.7 ± 24.1 kg; mean BMI 38.4 ± 8.0 kg/m²) who underwent IGB were evaluated for improvement on obesity-related illnesses and QOL after weight reduction in a multidisciplinary university referral center. Bioenterics Intragastric balloon (BIB®) system was employed in the study.

Mean treatment period was 169.9 ± 34.8 days. Mean BW, BMI, and excess body weight loss were 12.4 ± 6.9 kg, 4.6 ± 2.7 kg/m², and 45.1 ± 35.3%. Mean waist circumference and biceps fold and triceps fold loss were 10.5 ± 8.3, 9.8 ± 8.5, and 8.7 ± 7.4 cm respectively. Metabolic syndrome was decreased from 42.9% to 15.1% after IGB (p < 0.0005). Improvement of obesity-related illnesses were significant in fasting glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, C-reactive protein, and blood pressure (p < 0.005).In 28 diabetes patients, HBA1C level was significantly decreased as compared to baseline (7.4 vs. 5.8%; p < 0.0005). The QOL of patients was significantly improved after IGB (p < 0.05). No serious complication related to IGB was observed. Four patients (3.3%) had intolerence and required early removal of balloon. Thirty-one patients (26%) received further bariatric surgery after IGB.

IGB produces meaningful weight loss and significantly improves obesity-related illnesses and quality of life.