One-Year Outcomes in a Supervised Program of Swallowable Intragastric Balloon-Analysis of 486 Patients in a High-Volume Bariatric Centre in Malaysia.

Abstract

The swallowable intragastric balloon (IGB) has recently emerged as a popular alternative for weight loss in Malaysia. It can reduce total body weight loss (TBWL) by 6-15%. We aim to observe positive weight loss up to a year after the swallowable IGB is implanted. A total of 486 consecutive patients with overweight or obesity who underwent swallowable IGB insertion were included in this prospective data collection. Out of 486 patients, 404 patients (83%) had complete data at the end of 4 and 12months. Patients included in the study had a starting mean body mass index of 35.3 ± 7.2kg/m2 which decreased to 31.5 ± 5.7kg/m2 (p < 0.0001) at the end of 4months and further reduced to 30.3 ± 5.4kg/m2 (p < 0.0001) at the end of 12months. At 4months, the overall average weight loss was 9.8kg, meanwhile, at 12months, the average weight loss increased to 12.9kg. At 4months, the average TBWL was 10.5%, while at the end of 1year, the combined %TBWL increased to 13.7%. Most weight loss is typically observed within the first 4months following the procedure. However, it is important to note that patients can continue to experience ongoing weight loss for up to 1year. The swallowable IGB is a safe and effective option for patients seeking weight loss solutions. It offers numerous advantages, especially its non-invasive procedureless nature, which makes it more appealing to individuals considering this treatment.