Endoscopic intragastric balloon: A novel therapy for weight loss.

Endoscopic intra gastric balloon placement provides an alternative method for weight loss in patients who fail to respond to life style modification, diet restriction and pharmacological therapy. Intra gastric balloon (IGB), placement can be used as a temporary measure for weight loss in obesity with or without related complications or bridge therapy in morbid obesity prior to bariatric surgery. Weight loss achieved following IGB implantation depends on the type of balloon, medium, and filling volume used for IGB inflation. This brief review provides an overview of the indications, efficacy and safety of intragastric balloon treatment in patients with obesity.