How many gastric balloon complications have been reported in the UK?

Between 2018 and 2024, there were eight reported cases of gastric perforation and small bowel obstruction, and 13 cases of gastric outlet obstruction linked to the procedure in the UK.

Can gastric balloons become lodged in the body?

Yes, in rare instances, the gastric balloon does not transit through the bowel as designed and can become lodged, leading to potentially dangerous consequences and hospitalization.

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Gastric Balloon Woes: Serious Complications Emerge

Q: What are the serious complications associated with gastric balloon procedures?

Serious complications can include gastric outlet obstruction, small bowel obstruction, and gastric perforation, often requiring medical intervention like surgery.

15 Apr

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Summary

Gastric balloons can cause serious complications like obstruction and perforation.
Allurion reports multiple cases requiring intervention, including surgery.
A patient described a terrifying experience of the balloon becoming lodged.

Gastric Balloon Woes: Serious Complications Emerge

Individuals undergoing gastric balloon weight-loss procedures have been alerted to potential serious complications. The treatment, which involves swallowing a water-filled capsule to promote fullness, has seen a surge in popularity. While the balloon is designed to pass naturally after approximately four months, there have been reports of it becoming lodged, leading to significant health issues.

Allurion, a provider of gastric balloons to the NHS, has warned physicians of "known but serious complications." These include gastric outlet obstruction, small bowel obstruction, and gastric perforation. Between 2018 and 2024, eight cases of gastric perforation and small bowel obstruction, along with 13 cases of gastric outlet obstruction, were reported in Britain. All affected patients required further medical intervention, such as surgery or endoscopic procedures, but recovered without further complications.