The Role of Intragastric Balloon Application in Non-Surgical Management of Obesity: Efficacy, Tolerance, and Complications

This study aimed to evaluate the weight-loss efficacy, tolerability, and safety of intragastric balloon (IGB) therapy as a minimally invasive alternative for patients who do not undergo bariatric surgery. Between June 2022 and October 2024, liquid-filled IGBs were endoscopically placed in 56 patients (aged 18–65 years, BMI > 27 kg/m²) who had failed to lose weight through lifestyle modifications. Following the exclusion of cases involving intolerance and one patient who required early removal due to pregnancy, data from 51 patients (51% female; mean age 29.4 years; mean baseline BMI 34.8 kg/m²) were retrospectively analyzed at the 6-month follow-up. Results demonstrated significant weight loss, with mean weight decreasing from 103.4 kg to 89.3 kg (−14.1 kg), representing a 13.7% Total Body Weight Loss (TBWL) and 57.5% Excess Weight Loss (EWL). Optimal results were observed in the BMI 30–35 kg/m² subgroup (TBWL 17.4%, EWL 68.9%; p<0.05). While advancing age showed a statistically significant positive correlation with weight loss, this relationship was modest in clinical strength. The treatment was well-tolerated, with only a 7.2% intolerance rate and no major complications. In conclusion, IGB therapy is a safe and effective short-term intervention, providing optimal results in patients with a BMI of 30–35 kg/m² and showing a modest positive correlation with advancing age.