Impact of intragastric balloon on blood pressure reduction: A retrospective study in Eastern North Carolina.

Background: Obesity has evolved into a global pandemic. The prevalence of obesity and hypertension in eastern North Carolina are comparable, if not higher, than the national prevalence. In the United States, an estimated 34% of adults have hypertension, the most modifiable risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

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.

Retrograde jejunoduodenogastric intussusception due to a replacement percutaneous gastrostomy tube presenting as upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube complications can be serious or life threatening. Retrograde intussusception is a very rare complication of PEG tubes with only 9 cases reported in the literature. We describe a case of retrograde intussusception, associated with the use of a Foley catheter as a replacement gastrostomy tube, presenting with upper gastrointestinal bleeding.