Implantable Gastric Stimulation

Has anyone seen any research on this procedure? Thanks http://obesitysurgery-info.com/gastricstimulator.htm

Donna, Here's an excerpt from one of the articles on the gastric stimulator: "Data were available for 15 patients being treated at one of the two centers. Of those, 80% lost weight during a mean follow-up of 9.5 months, (range 8-14 months). Average amount of weight loss was 18.8% of excess weight, with 60% losing more than 10% of their excess weight. In addition, there was a 15% change in appetite before meals, a 60% change in satiety between meals, and a 90% change in satiety at the end of a meal, the researchers report." This means that if you're 100 lbs overweight, you'll lose between 10 and 18.8 lbs. Granted, this is short-term data, but hardly worth an operation if you ask me. It may hold some promise for the future, but isn't quite ready for prime time yet. On the other hand, you might want to take a look at this: http://www.transforminglives.co.uk/bodyplan/gastric-balloon.html This will be available in the US in a year or less I'd say. C

Hi Dr. C, I went to the link and I was wondering - what happens when they take the balloon out after 6 months? Does the patient just diet and exercise to keep the weight off and what if you don't lose all the excess weight in 6 months? I have not done well with my band much to my dismay - what are your statistics for your band patients so far. My surgeon says I am one of his few failures. I cannot seem to find the "sweet spot" - I'm either unrestricted or too tight and PBing. Thanks for your thoughts. Paula L.

It's not a good permanent solution as after the balloon is removed (it can only be left for 6 months) there is a high likelihood of weight regain. However for those who only need to lose 30-50 lbs it could be a good option. In your case, it sounds to me like you might have a slip. Have you had an upper GI? Sometimes you need to have more than one. Dr. C

Thanks for your reply - I had an upper GI in the spring when I was unfilled for the first time and the band was fine. Since I have been refilled, unfilled and refilled again and unfilled again and increments in between. Do you mean that sometimes you need more than one upper GI or fill? I lost 30 lbs the first 3 months of being banded and then started to have trouble with being hungry and unsatisfied. I had a fill - started to PB and had some unfill. Eventually unfilled all the way and had upper GI. Tried being filled again and then unfilled again. I have gained back 15 lbs and still PB occasionally with no fill. I still can't eat bread or beef but that's okay. I just have trouble with not being full or satisfied. Have any of your patients had a similar story? Paula (UC alum)

Yes, I meant another upper GI. That's what I would recommend, maybe even a scope to look in your stomach. Fortunately, I haven't had any patients with this trouble! Good luck, Dr. C