The gastric balloon in Tunisia is an increasingly popular non-surgical solution for weight loss in people suffering from obesity. In Tunisia, this procedure has become an attractive option due to its affordability compared to other countries.
The gastric balloon is a flexible silicone medical device that is inserted into the stomach endoscopically. Once in place, the balloon is filled with a saline solution to take up space in the stomach, reducing the stomach’s capacity to hold food. This makes the patient feel fuller more quickly and can help to reduce the amount of food eaten, thereby promoting weight loss.
In Tunisia, the price of gastric balloon surgery is generally more affordable than in many other countries, making it an attractive option for patients seeking a solution to their obesity. Costs can vary depending on various factors, such as the clinic, the type of balloon used and the services included in the package. However, in general, gastric balloon surgery in Tunisia offers excellent value for money.
Types of gastric balloon
There are several types of gastric balloon available on the market, the two main ones being the ORBERA 365 and the ELIPSE. These balloons differ in the way they are placed, the length of time they are worn and other specific characteristics.
- ORBERA 365: This gastric balloon is designed to be worn for a period of 12 months. It is inserted into the stomach endoscopically and filled with a saline solution to take up space in the stomach.
- ELIPSE: Unlike ORBERA, ELIPSE does not require an endoscopic procedure for placement. It is swallowed by the patient in capsule form and expands once in the stomach. After a certain amount of time, the balloon deflates and is eliminated naturally by the body.
Intragastric balloon surgery in Tunisia is generally recommended for people who are overweight or obese, but who are not ready to undergo a more invasive surgical procedure such as bariatric surgery. This option may also be considered by patients with a high body mass index (BMI) who find it difficult to lose weight using traditional methods such as diet and exercise.
More specifically, the gastric balloon may be recommended for people who meet the following criteria:
- BMI over 30: The intragastric balloon is generally recommended for people with a BMI over 30, which corresponds to a classification of obesity.
- Motivation to lose weight: Patients must be motivated and committed to adopting a healthy lifestyle and following medical recommendations to maximise the results of the gastric balloon
- Inability to lose weight using non-surgical methods: Patients who have tried to lose weight using traditional methods such as diet and exercise, but have found it difficult to maintain sustained weight loss, may be good candidates for the gastric balloon.
- Preparation for future surgery: The intragastric balloon can be used as a temporary solution to help patients lose weight before bariatric surgery, or to reduce the risk of obesity-related complications before another medical procedure.
The gastric balloon offers a non-surgical, reversible approach to weight loss in obese patients. By occupying space in the stomach, the balloon reduces the stomach’s capacity to hold food, resulting in a faster feeling of satiety and a reduction in calorie intake. This method can be particularly useful for patients who are not candidates for bariatric surgery or who prefer to avoid a more invasive surgical procedure.
Before surgery
Before gastric ballooning in Tunisia, patients usually undergo a thorough medical assessment to determine their eligibility for the procedure. This may include physical examinations, blood tests, cardiac and pulmonary assessments, as well as consultations with specialists such as nutritionists and psychologists. Patients are also informed of the risks, benefits and expectations of the procedure, and are encouraged to ask any questions and voice any concerns.
The intervention itself
The gastric balloon procedure is generally performed under general anaesthetic and can be carried out on an outpatient basis, meaning that patients can go home the same day. The procedure begins with the insertion of the balloon into the stomach either endoscopically or by ingestion, depending on the type of balloon used. Once in place, the balloon is filled with a saline solution for expansion. The duration of the procedure may vary depending on the method used and the surgeon’s preference.
Operating suites
After gastric balloon surgery in Tunisia, patients may experience nausea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort for the first few days. However, these symptoms are generally temporary and can be controlled with medication. Patients are encouraged to follow a liquid diet for the first few days after the procedure, then gradually switch to solid foods. Regular follow-up with the medical team is essential to monitor the patient’s progress and make adjustments if necessary.
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