For the First Time, Non-Surgical Gastric Balloon Available on NHS

The NHS now offers a non-surgical gastric balloon therapy for weight loss, taking just 15 minutes to administer without surgery, endoscopy, or anesthesia.

This method, endorsed by Nice in 2020, requires patients to swallow a capsule attached to a tube, then inflate it with water via the tube in the stomach, confirming placement with X-rays. After four months, the balloon deflates and exits the body naturally.

Two patients received this treatment at Musgrove Park hospital in November, with three more treatments scheduled for February. The device maker, Allurion, plans to expand the service across additional NHS trusts.

The treatment is noted for aiding significant weight loss, potentially reducing a third of excess body weight. It offers a comprehensive weight management program that includes dietary support and is considered particularly beneficial for improving conditions like type 2 diabetes through weight loss.

Consultant bariatric surgeon Prof Richard Welbourn expressed enthusiasm for the treatment's advantages for patient experience and the NHS, highlighting an expected weight loss of 10-15% within four months.

Allurion CEO Dr. Shantanu Gaur expressed excitement at the collaboration with the NHS and the prospect of extending the benefits to more patients.