Intragastric Balloon Placement
What is an Intragastric Balloon Placement?
Intragastric Balloon Placement (IGB) is a non-surgical option that uses a temporary balloon to improve a patient's health and lose weight. In addition to the balloon, making lifestyle changes such as eating healthier and improving physical activity can help with achieving health goals. This procedure is ideal for people who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30 and 40 and are participating in a comprehensive weight loss program.
Benefits
Benefits of receiving this procedure include reducing the potential risk of the following:
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- High cholesterol
- Sleep apnea
To Qualify for this Procedure
In order to receive this procedure, a patient must also meet specific requirements as established by the National Institutes of Health.
- Must be 22 years old or older
- Must participate in a medically supervised program
- Must attend regularly scheduled appointments as part of their follow-up care.
- Previously unsuccessful in achieving your weight loss goals through diet and exercise,
The following reasons may prevent a patient from qualifying to receive this procedure:
- Have had a previous gastrointestinal surgery
- Disease of the gastrointestinal tract
- If you have a large structural abnormality or hiatal hernia in the larynx or esophagus
- Pregnancy, currently breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant within six months.
- If you regularly use anticoagulants, anti-inflammatories, or other gastric irritants
Insurance
The intragastric balloon program may not be covered by health insurance. It's encouraged patients to call their health insurer to confirm coverage.
