FDA Bans Swallowable Gastric Balloon – Health Update
News: Melike Şahin
The Ministry of Health in Turkey has decided to suspend the swallowable gastric balloon application, which was used on 6,500 individuals last year. This decision was made due to the misuse of the method in aesthetic-beauty centers in France, which led to negative results.
In an interview with NTV, Prof. Dr. Oktay Banlı, the President of the Turkish Obesity Surgery Foundation, explained that the application of the swallowable gastric balloon should only be done by general surgeons or gastroenterology specialists. He emphasized that allowing other professionals to perform this procedure could be dangerous for patients. This decision is considered to be a precautionary measure to prevent further issues.
Currently, the Ministry of Health does not permit general surgeons and gastroenterologists to use the swallowable gastric balloon. It is expected that the EU will make a decision regarding this matter on February 9.
The swallowable gastric balloon is viewed as a less invasive alternative to traditional weight loss surgeries, as it does not require an operation. In Turkey, approximately 25 thousand people have undergone this procedure.
Prof. Dr. Oktay Banlı highlighted that the swallowable gastric balloon is a temporary weight loss solution for individuals who are not candidates for surgery and are moderately overweight. The balloon remains in the stomach for about 6 months and is ingested in the form of a capsule pill before inflating. Importantly, these balloons dissolve on their own over time.
He cautioned individuals against viewing the procedure as a simple pill that inflates in the stomach, emphasizing the importance of proper medical oversight and follow-up care. The swallowable gastric balloon, when used correctly, can be a safe and effective weight loss tool for eligible patients.
