Abstract
Background 
 The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved three intragastric balloons (IGB) devices, ReShape, ORBERA™, and Obalon, for treating obesity. Given the high cost, complication risk, and invasiveness of bariatric surgery, IGB treatment may present a safer and lower-cost option for weight reduction. IGBs are generally placed in the stomach endoscopically for up to 6 months to reduce gastric capacity, enhance feelings of fullness, and induce weight loss. The mechanism of action likely involves stimulation of gastric mechanoreceptors triggering short-acting vagal signals to brain regions implicated in satiety. Balloon efficacy may be influenced by balloon volume, patient gastric capacity, and treatment duration.
 Objectives 
 To evaluate the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of intra-gastric balloons on weight reduction versus obese patients’ failed weight controlled by dietary changes and drugs.
 Methods
 A retrospective study was performed in Sulaimani City from 2017 to Feb./2018. We included 40 obese patients by the World Health Organization (WHO) definition of BMI≥30. The subjects aged 18-68 years with intra-gastric balloons were inserted by endoscopy for 4-9 months. Anthropometric measurements were obtained before, during and after the removal of intra-gastric balloons.
 Results
 In total, 40 cases of obese patients, 21 (52.5%) females and 19 (47.5%) males. The mean age was 37.1±11.70years with a range of 18-68 years. BMI and weight significantly reduced early 3-month mean weight 12.78±2.81 Kg, and late 6-month mean weight 9.05±1.89 Kg and around 21 Kgs at removal. Only one patient was the IGB removed early by four months and was not included. Late one year after IGB removal, the long-term effect on BMI and weight were recorded and maintained in most persons. 
 Conclusion
 Intragastric balloon (IGB) was effective in our study. The observed weight reduction was maintained through 1 year after removal & IGB appeared safe and tolerable & satisfactory for most obese subjects.
Published Version
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