Background
For people suffering from obesity, bariatric surgery is a possible solution. However, some patients are not eligible for surgery according to international guidelines. For these patients, different treatment options are being explored, such as pharmacological treatment or an intragastric balloon. Most intragastric balloons are placed and removed endoscopically. In the current study we examined the effectiveness of a new development, the swallowable intragastric balloon, in patients suffering from overweight and obesity.

Method
A retrospective data study was conducted in patients with an intragastric balloon placement between December 2018 and July 2021 in the Dutch Obesity Clinics. Prior to balloon placement, patients underwent extensive screening by a multidisciplinary team. The intragastric balloon was swallowed by the patient and filled with fluid once in the stomach. After 16 week in the stomach the balloon deflates and leaves the body. In addition to placement of the balloon, patients are enrolled in a 12 month lifestyle intervention.

Results
342 patient were included with a mean age of 46 (±12) years. 71.6% was female. Mean baseline weight and BMI were 107.4 kg (±19,25) and 36.1 kg/m² (±5,02). After one year, mean Total Weight Loss was 12.6% (±8.3). The mean duration of the placement was 13,1 minute (±2.82), and in 43.7% of the procedures a stylet (guide wire) was used to facilitate placement. The most common symptoms were nausea, 80.6%, and gastric pain, 81.1%, which resolved within a week. The mean time between the procedure and return to work was 3.93 (±2.31) days. After deflation of the first balloon, at 16 weeks, a second balloon was placed in 19 patients.

Conclusion
Given the low rate of complaints and the positive effect on weight loss, we conclude that the swallowable intragastric balloon, combined with lifestyle coaching, is a safe and effective treatment option for patients suffering from overweight and obesity.