Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon in Turkey
Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon: A Comprehensive Guide in Turkey & Antalya
What is the Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon?
How Does the Allurion Balloon Work?
- 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.