The MLC technique shows no differences in risks as compared with other laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedures. It also entails a considerable reduction in cost, and, as it does not use the 3-mm laparoscope or disposable materials, it is possible to perform MLC on a larger number of patients. Owing to the near invisibility of scars, MLC may also be considered as cosmetically effective as NOTES and SILS.
Preliminary data suggest that the procedure with the new balloon comes forth as a safe and effective alternative to the treatment of weight loss in patients with appropriate indication of use.
BackgroundIn this study, a new safer and faster intragastric balloon procedure was also employed to treat pre-obese patients (body mass index (BMI) < 30).MethodsFrom June 2006 to June 2009, 20 such patients were submitted to the Silimed Gastric Balloon treatment, as a part of a multidisciplinary program involving clinical, psychological, and behavioral approaches. For the 16 patients who had completed the 5–6-month treatment, the initial mean weight and mean BMI were 74 kg and 27.5 kg/m2, respectively.ResultsAfter the treatment, the mean weight and BMI values decreased significantly to 65.9 kg and 24.5 kg/m2, respectively. There were only minor complications—nausea and vomiting—with the exception of two cases of spontaneous deflation of the devices which were successfully removed by gastric endoscopy.ConclusionsThus, preliminary data suggest that this new intragastric balloon procedure might also be a safe and effective treatment for weight loss in pre-obese patients.
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