What percentage of bariatric procedures are accounted for by intra-gastric balloons?

Intra-gastric balloons are a less invasive option among bariatric procedures that focus on weight loss for individuals with obesity. They work by temporarily occupying space in the stomach, which helps to reduce food intake and increase the feeling of fullness. As of recent data, intra-gastric balloons are utilized in approximately 2% of all bariatric procedures performed. This figure reflects their role as a specialized treatment option, suitable for specific patient populations, rather than a widely adopted method compared to more common procedures like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.

Recognizing that intra-gastric balloons represent a minority of the total bariatric surgeries provides insight into the current trends in obesity management and the variation in surgical weight loss interventions available to patients. Being aware of this statistic is essential for healthcare providers in the field of obesity medicine, as it underscores the need for individualized treatment strategies based on patient needs and medical history.