Differences between the POSE method and the intragastric balloon
Losing weight is not an easy task for almost anyone. However, many reach a point where the kilos no longer only affect the aesthetics but also the health and medical help becomes necessary.
Our gastroenterologist Esmeralda Rubio is a specialist in obesity endoscopy, a treatment that attempts to alleviate or correct problems caused by obesity. Ms Rubio explained to us the basic differences between two of the most common procedures: the gastric balloon and the POSE method.
The key difference lies in the patient who is eligible for each of the techniques. The intragastric balloon is recommended for patients with a body mass index between 25 and 30 and the POSE method for patients with a body mass index between 30 and 40.
Above 40, obesity is considered morbid and bariatric surgery is necessary.
What is the intragastric balloon?
It is a minimally invasive procedure in which a silicone balloon is inserted into the stomach via endoscopy. A folded sphere that will later expand in the stomach. It is a restrictive technique, which means that it reduces the volume of the stomach so that the patient is more easily satiated when eating little. In addition, the balloon also delays the emptying of the stomach and digestion, so it takes longer for the patient to feel hungry again.
There are two types of balloons: one with a useful life of 6 months and another with a useful life of 12 months. Depending on the amount of weight to be lost, we will use one or the other.
The differences between the two balloons are almost meaningless. However, the 12-month balloon is made of a more durable material as it is designed to stay in the stomach for a longer period of time. In addition, a valve is built in, as it is possible for the balloon to shrink and lose effectiveness during use. If the patient's weight loss does not continue, an endoscopy will check the size of the balloon and, if necessary, we can introduce more fluid through the valve and re-inflate it.
When the balloon is removed, both after 6 and 12 months, the process is the same: we go in with a new conventional endoscopy, puncture the balloon with a millimetre needle, suck out the contents, deflate the balloon and remove it while the patient is sedated and feels no discomfort.
How does the POSE method work?
Unlike the intragastric balloon, the POSE method is a more definitive method.
While balloon patients have between 6 and 12 months to lose weight and change their eating and lifestyle habits and then maintain the weight loss, with the POSE method they have more time to lose the kilos with medical support.
The POSE method consists of using an endoscopy to create some folds inside the stomach. A type of clip or staple is placed so that the stomach volume can be reduced from the inside.
It is similar to stomach surgery with the difference that part of the stomach is removed or cut during the operation, whereas in the POSE method, clips are placed inside the stomach to reduce its capacity. Although they can be removed if necessary, in the POSE method the staples are permanent and last much longer. So, the patient does not have a set period of time to lose the desired weight. And once one has lost weight, it is easier to maintain it.
Despite the effectiveness and efficacy of both methods, all patients should remember that these are treatments that only work if they are accompanied by a healthy lifestyle and a change in dietary habits.
For this reason, at Juaneda Hospitals we have a team of professionals at your disposal. Nutritionists and endocrinologists who will accompany you both during and after the procedure.
A team that will help you achieve your goal with personalised guidelines, diets and advice.
Juaneda, close to you.
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