Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon in Turkey
Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon: A Comprehensive Guide in Turkey & Antalya
The Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon is an innovative, non-surgical weight loss solution designed for individuals looking to reduce their body weight without undergoing invasive procedures. Unlike traditional gastric balloons that require endoscopy and anesthesia for placement and removal, the Allurion balloon offers a swallowable capsule that expands in the stomach to create a feeling of fullness, thereby reducing food intake and promoting weight loss. This guide will explore the details of the Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon, including its mechanism, procedure, benefits, potential risks, and effectiveness.
What is the Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon?
The Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon, also known as the Elipse Balloon, is a temporary weight loss device developed by Allurion Technologies. It is designed for adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27 and above who are looking to lose weight but prefer to avoid surgical or endoscopic procedures. The Allurion balloon is unique in that it is swallowed in a capsule form and does not require endoscopy or anesthesia for placement or removal.
How Does the Allurion Balloon Work?
The Allurion balloon works by occupying space in the stomach, which helps to reduce food intake and promote a sense of fullness. The balloon is made from a soft, expandable material and is filled with a saline solution after ingestion. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how the balloon functions:
- Swallowing the Capsule: The balloon comes in a capsule attached to a thin catheter. The patient swallows the capsule with the help of water under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Once the capsule reaches the stomach, an X-ray or ultrasound is used to confirm its proper placement.
- Balloon Inflation: After the capsule is confirmed to be in the stomach, the healthcare provider uses the attached catheter to fill the balloon with approximately 550 ml of a saline solution. Once filled, the catheter is detached and gently removed from the patient’s mouth.
- Creating Fullness: The inflated balloon occupies a significant portion of the stomach, creating a feeling of fullness. This reduced gastric capacity means patients feel satisfied with smaller food portions, which helps in decreasing overall caloric intake.
- Natural Removal: Unlike other gastric balloons that require endoscopic removal, the Allurion balloon is designed to naturally deflate after approximately 16 weeks. It has a built-in release valve that allows the saline to leak out slowly. Once deflated, the balloon passes naturally through the digestive tract and is expelled from the body.
Procedure Overview Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon in Turkey
- 1. Pre-Procedure Consultation: Before the Allurion balloon is placed, patients undergo a thorough consultation with a healthcare provider. This typically includes a review of medical history, assessment of weight loss goals, and a discussion of dietary habits and lifestyle. Blood tests and other diagnostic assessments may also be conducted to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure.
- 2. Swallowing the Capsule: The actual placement of the balloon is a straightforward process that takes about 20 minutes. The patient swallows the capsule, which is the size of a large vitamin pill, under medical supervision. Most patients do not find swallowing the capsule difficult, but an X-ray or ultrasound is used to confirm that it has reached the stomach.
- 3. Balloon Inflation: Once the balloon is in the stomach, it is filled with saline through the catheter. This part of the procedure is also monitored to ensure safety and proper inflation. After inflation, the catheter is removed, and the balloon remains in the stomach.
- 4. Monitoring and Support: After the balloon is placed, patients are closely monitored for any adverse reactions. Most patients are able to go home shortly after the procedure. They are provided with detailed dietary and lifestyle guidelines to follow while the balloon is in place. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare team are scheduled to monitor progress and provide support.
- 5. Natural Expulsion: After approximately 16 weeks, the balloon naturally deflates and is passed through the digestive system without the need for any additional medical intervention. Patients continue to follow a weight maintenance program for several months after the balloon has been expelled.
Benefits of the Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon in Turkey / Antalya
The Allurion balloon offers several advantages over traditional weight loss methods and other types of gastric balloons: