Procedureless Gastric Balloon Encourages Weight Loss

An innovative gastric balloon offers an alternative treatment option for overweight and obese individuals.

The Elipse procedureless gastric balloon is a thin, flexible polymer film balloon that is delivered in a swallowable capsule, thus eliminating the need for surgery, endoscopy, or anesthesia. Once in position, it is filled with liquid through a thin delivery catheter, which is then detached by tugging. The gastric balloon remains in the stomach for four months, after which it automatically empties and is excreted naturally from the body. The Elipse will be offered by physicians in conjunction with a medically supervised diet and exercise program.

The Elipse has undergone clinical studies in people with a body mass index (BMI) of 27-40 kg/m². Study findings indicated an average weight loss of 10 kilograms, with participants losing 37% of their excess weight and eight centimeters off their waist circumference over the four month treatment period. Participants also saw improvements in triglyceride and hemoglobin HbA1c levels, and all balloons were safely and naturally excreted. The Elipse procedureless gastric balloon is a product of Allurion Technologies (Wellesley, MA, USA), and has received the European Community CE marking of approval.

“Excess weight often has a profound impact on health and quality of life, including work, relationships, and self-perception. But of nearly two billion overweight and obese adults worldwide, less than one percent have embraced currently available surgical and endoscopic options,” said Shantanu Gaur, MD, co-founder and chief scientific officer of Allurion Technologies. “Weight loss therapies that require surgery, endoscopy, or anesthesia are often too invasive and can be too expensive for people who might otherwise greatly benefit from them.”

“Following six years of development, we are very excited to enter the next phase of our company's growth,” said Jonathan Wecker, CEO of Allurion Technologies. “I am extremely proud of our team and thankful for the support of the many physicians and allied caregivers that have helped make Elipse a reality.”

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