Monday, June 18, 2018

Deadly Gastric Balloons


Intragastric balloons are a treatment for obesity but have had twelve deaths worldwide since 2016. They help patients lose weight by taking up space in the stomach so there is less room for food. Two of the products involved were Orbera Intragastric Balloon system made by Apollo Endosurgery Inc. and one to the ReShape Integrated Dual Balloon System made by ReShape Lifesciences. Four of the deaths are related to a perforation in the stomach wall. Although the intragastric balloons are causing deaths the FDA, "believes that these devices remain 'an appropriate treatment option' for some patients with obesity." It is highly recommended that the patient talk to a doctor about possible adverse effects. 

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