Effectiveness of Online Aftercare Programs Following Intragastric Balloon Placement for Obesity Is Similar to Traditional Follow-up: a Large Propensity Matched US Multicenter Study.

Background: The combination of intragastric balloons (IGB) with comprehensive lifestyle and behavioral changes is critical for ongoing weight loss. Many community and rural practices do not have access to robust obesity resources, limiting the use of IGBs. Online aftercare programs were developed in response to this need, delivering lifestyle coaching to maximize effectiveness.

Single Fluid-Filled Intragastric Balloon Safe and Effective for Inducing Weight Loss in a Real-World Population.

Background & Aims: The Orbera intragastric balloon (OIB) is a single fluid-filled intragastric balloon approved for the induction of weight loss and treatment of obesity. However, little is known about the effectiveness and safety of the OIB outside clinical trials, and since approval, the Food and Drug Administration has issued warnings to health care providers about risk of balloon hyperinflation requiring early removal, pancreatitis, and death. We analyzed data on patients who have received the OIB since its approval to determine its safety, effectiveness, and tolerance in real-world clinical settings.

Preoperative placement of inferior vena cava filters and outcomes after gastric bypass surgery.

Objective: To assess relationships between inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placement and complications within 30 days of gastric bypass surgery.

Summary Of Background Data: IVC filters are increasingly being used as prophylaxis against postoperative pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing bariatric surgery, despite a lack of evidence of effectiveness.

Methods: On the basis of data from a prospective clinical registry involving 20 Michigan hospitals, we identified 6376 patients undergoing gastric bypass surgery between 2006 and 2008.