FDA Announces Approval For Implanted Balloon Device to Help Combat Obesity
Source: http://ift.tt/1KFMgUv The United States Food and Drug Administration has recently approved a temporary, implanted balloon device that helps people lose weight. Of course, the approval has now left many scratching their heads, wondering exactly how it works. The device—called the ReShape Integrated Dual Balloon System—and it consists of two connected balloons that are filled with saline. The balloons basically just occupy space in the stomach to, hopefully, make the patient feel fuller sooner in their meals so they do not eat as much. However, the device can only be used for six months at a time and is currently not advised as an alternative to lap-band procedure. Well, Lenox Hill Hospital chief of obesity surgery, Dr. Mitchell Roslin, describes, “It’s going to be effective for short-term weight-loss but there is still an overwhelming question whether these devices provide any long-term benefit for obesity.” He goes on to say, “I don’t think it’s going to be pa...