Everything you need to know about – Pose method vs Intragastric Balloon

What are the differences between the pose method and the intragastric balloon?

The BIG method deals with the temporary introduction (6 or 12 months) of a balloon (balloon) into the patient’s stomach via endoscopy (oral route) by sedation. After placement, the person feels less appetite.

The balloon is removed via endoscopy under general anaesthesia after 6 to 12 months.

The pose method is a method in which the capacity and shape of the stomach is reduced by means of plications via endoscopy under general anaesthesia. The patient will eat less and feel full sooner.

For which patients is the pose method indicated?

It is indicated for patients with type 1 or type 2 obesity. With a BMI between 30-40. There is the reinforced pose method for patients with a BMI greater than 40 (morbid obesity).

How is the procedure performed?

It is performed via endoscopy under general anaesthesia and a series of folds is made in the gastric fundus to modify the size of the stomach and in the antrum to slow down its emptying. The operative process lasts from 1 hour and a half to two.

How is the postoperative?

Mild abdominal discomfort, neck pain due to intubation, esophagitis or pharyngitis may appear in 24 hours after the procedure, the patient will return home and will be able to carry out more or less his normal life.

How many kilos do you usually lose? In how long approximately?

It depends on the patient, but approximately between 25-35 kilos. The time of weight loss is usually in the first two-three months a loss of 60%.

Why is it so important for the patient to go through this whole process accompanied by nutritionists and psychologists?

Because they must also learn to re-educate themselves on food, because, even if they are undergoing stomach reduction, they need a change in lifestyle. Psychology is important because of the anxiety issue or because they can no longer eat the amounts they previously ate.

Is it possible for the patient to regain the lost weight after a while?

If you do not monitor nutritionally and psychologically and do not change your eating lifestyle and do sports, it may be that in the future you will regain some of the lost weight.

Is it a reversible technique?

Although the sutures are prepared to remain in the stomach for life, the POSE method is a reversible procedure. That is, if deemed necessary, it is possible to undo the folds and return the stomach to its original state.

Can it have any side effects or contraindications?

During the procedure, although exceptionally, bleeding or perforation may occur. The discomfort after its performance is mild and controllable with medications for 48-72 hours. Contraindicated in patients with gastric pathology.

How do patients feel when they reach their target weight?

During the weight loss process, they become more motivated by rapid loss during the first few months and are more encouraged to change their eating and exercise habits. They feel fullness that they have achieved their goal without being anxious about food. If someone had any pathology, it is usually removed or changes their state as well as physically they feel better about themselves both physically and psychologically.