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What are the alternatives to weight loss surgery? For many years, gastric bypass surgery was considered as one of the best methods to quickly lose extra weight. Patients with obesity decided on this solution, but it must be remembered that it is not a good option for everyone. Some people have contraindications to such surgery. Conflict of interest and greater harm than benefits caused many people to abandon this surgical method. In such a situation, they were left without effective treatment. Currently, there are non-surgical methods that more obese patients may choose. In our study, you will find solutions that may be an alternative to bariatric surgery.
- Alternatives to weight loss surgery
- Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
- Orbera Weight Loss Balloon for patients with obesity
- Adjustable Spatz3 balloon
- Losing weight with medical support
- Why is surgery not always a good idea?
Alternatives to weight loss surgery
The problem of obesity concerns a significant part of society. Younger and younger people are suffering from obesity, which makes it difficult for them to return to a healthy weight on their own. Some people lack patterns, while others are unable to lose weight despite diet and exercise. In such a situation, they may consider other alternatives to invasive surgery. What are the alternatives to weight loss surgery?
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
This is a non-surgical method. The doctor inserts a special tube into the stomach through the mouth. A camera is connected to the tube. It allows you to view the stomach and apply stitches that will shrink the stomach. Most often, its volume is reduced by as much as 75%. Thanks to this, patients eat smaller portions and feel full after a small meal. In addition, this procedure may be chosen by people who have had previous surgical procedures that were not successful, and patients do not want to undergo serious surgery again.
After such a procedure, the patient remains under observation and can leave the hospital on the same day. The procedure is performed under anaesthesia, so it is important to come to the clinic with a driver who will take the patient home.
Orbera Weight Loss Balloon for patients with obesity
Orbera Weight Loss Balloon is also an alternative to metabolic and bariatric surgery. Unlike bariatric surgery, this balloon is placed in the stomach with the help of an endoscope. The entire procedure takes several minutes. First, such a balloon is placed and then filled with saline, which is why patients feel full. What are the outcomes after this procedure?
This method does not require metabolic and thoracic surgery. The patient will have no visible scars or wounds that require long-term healing.
There is no need to administer general anaesthesia. All you need is short-term sedation. This method is used for a short period of time, usually about six months. After this time, it is possible to assess whether the patient’s weight has reduced. The balloon can be pulled out at any time. If patients are not eligible for surgical methods, they still have a chance to lose weight.
Adjustable Spatz3 balloon
Another option is the Spatz3 balloon, which is inserted endoscopically into the stomach and its volume can be adjusted. Patients who are qualified for this method must at the same time remember to follow their diet, increase their physical activity and improve their overall lifestyle.
If the patient experiences various symptoms, the volume of the balloon can be reduced at any time. This is a solution for people who do not want to use surgical methods. Their BMI must be above 27. After the balloon is inserted, the patient needs a few days to rest and adapt to the new situation. After this time, he can return to his daily duties.
Losing weight with medical support
Intensive medical support in the treatment of obesity involves developing an appropriate nutritional plan, exercise plan, changing everyday unhealthy habits and introducing pharmacology.
In some patients, it is very difficult to perform any surgical or non-surgical procedure. However, they are not left without help. They can opt for the mentioned treatment regimen, in which they are supported by professionals and specialists in this field.
It is also a solution for people who need a fundamental change in their thinking using slimming balloons. The balloon itself is not enough. You need to change and organise your thinking. Treatment can be adapted to your budget and financial possibilities.
Why is surgery not always a good idea?
Surgical treatment is a method of modifying the stomach. Its aim is to surgically interfere with the intestine and stomach so that the patient eats less food and becomes full faster.
To be able to use such bariatric procedures, the patient must have an increased BMI level. Patients must also demonstrate that they have medical conditions that may be worsened by obesity. At the same time, the patient’s health condition must enable him to undergo the procedure. Not everyone is able to withstand such an invasive procedure. NSAIDs cannot be used afterwards. There are many complications and exclusions that prevent some patients from using the surgical method. Therefore, many doctors decide on their own whether to qualify someone.
Alternative non-surgical methods are associated with a lower risk of complications, are cheaper and more accessible – also for more sick patients.