Spatz3®️ Adjustable Gastric Balloon
The second part of the program is very important because it helps you maintain your weight loss. Our team of experts will work with you to guide you through the process of developing a healthy, balanced diet and support you in making healthy lifestyle choices.
Spatz3® is indicated for people who have approximately 10 or more kilograms to lose, or a BMI of 27kg/m2 and above, between the ages of 18-70 years.
Take the free online assessment to see if a balloon is suitable for you.
What is a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon is a non-surgical, temporary device which is placed in your stomach to assist you with your weight loss. The balloon is made of a durable silicone material and is latex free. It works by taking up space in your stomach consequently decreasing the quantity of food that the stomach can hold. The presence of the balloon also interferes with stomach emptying, such that food stays in the stomach longer. Together, these effects promote diminished appetite and early satiety with lesser food quantity allowing you to learn portion control and develop healthy changes in your eating habit. The size of the balloon varies by individual needs and requirements.
Take the free online assessment to see if a balloon is suitable for you.
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure is performed by a gastroenterologist via gastroscopy under deep sedation, in which the balloon is inserted into your stomach via your mouth. Once inside the stomach, the balloon is filled with sterile saline through a small tube attached to the balloon. The procedure usually takes around 15-20 minutes, however you will remain in the clinic for approximately one hour post insertion for observation.
Balloon adjustments are performed by a gastroenterologist via gastroscopy under light sedation, where saline is added or subtracted through the filling tube attached to the balloon. You can expect your first balloon adjustment around 3 to 4 months after insertion.
After 12 months, the intra-gastric balloon is removed through the mouth in a similar manner, under the same supervised conditions. Post removal, your support team will continue to guide you toward making healthy lifestyle choices.
Take the free online assessment to see if a balloon is suitable for you.
How long does it take to recover after the procedure?
You should plan at least three days of inactivity to recover from the procedure. You will be able to resume normal activity sooner or later depending on how quickly your body adjusts to the balloon. The first few days following insertion of the balloon can be challenging. As the stomach adjusts to the balloon you may feel discomfort and experience nausea, reflux, vomiting, cramping or heartburn. These side effects are temporary and you will be prescribed medication to help manage them.
Take the free online assessment to see if a balloon is suitable for you.
How do I lose weight with the Spatz3® Balloon?
The Spatz3® balloon works by occupying about one third of the stomach cavity, decreasing the amount of food the stomach can hold. When combined with a healthy diet and exercise the balloon helps control portion sizes and facilitates weight loss. The balloon assists with weight loss via three potential mechanisms; delaying gastric emptying, reducing gastric volume and stimulating ‘stretch’ receptors in the stomach which signals the brain to initiate a feeling of fullness.
Your dietitian will meet with you throughout the program to help you implement positive dietary and lifestyle modifications. Healthy food choices and lifestyle changes will be easier to maintain with the Spatz3® balloon in place.
Take the free online assessment to see if a balloon is suitable for you.
How much weight will I lose with the Spatz3® Balloon?
Clinical evidence suggests an average weight loss of 17-25kg over 12 months, however this is dependent on your starting weight and how well you adapt to the lifestyle changes. You can expect to lose three times the weight with a gastric balloon than you would with diet and exercise alone. Many diet programmes are difficult to maintain and you can struggle with feeling hungry. With a gastric balloon you eat smaller meals as a balloon takes up space in your stomach. You are more in control of your appetite, will learn portion control and make healthy changes in your eating habits
Your success depends on whether you make the necessary dietary and lifestyle adjustments and how well you apply them. A gastric balloon is a tool to aid weight loss and must be used in conjunction with diet, exercise and a behaviour modification program.
Clinical studies show that 76% of patients retain significant weight loss two years after Spatz3® balloon removal. Patients who follow the prescribed programme, engage in exercise and attend dietetic consultations regularly during the implantation period have a better chance of weight loss maintenance after the balloon is removed.
Take the free online assessment to see if a balloon is suitable for you.
What is the advice around pregnancy and the Spatz3® Balloon?
You must not become pregnant while the balloon is implanted, as pregnancy will result in the balloon having to be removed early. Contraception should be used while a balloon is in place. If you are already pregnant, we will not be able to proceed with a balloon insertion. Women are also advised not to become pregnant within three months of having their balloon removed, due to the possibility of nutritional deficiencies during the weight loss period.
For more information https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akP5-RmhRL8
Take the free online assessment to see if a balloon is suitable for you.
Visit our questions and answers page, where all of our videos are recorded live with Dr. Lara.
You can book a free online call back with one of the admin team at no charge. This call-back call is a no-obligation call and a chance for you to find out more about the Spatz3®️ procedure, how it works, including any questions you may have.
NOTE: This is not a medical consultation, and we do not give out any medical advice over the phone during this call.
You can book a medical consultation when we call you, or you can email us here
