Beneficial effects of intragastric balloon therapy associated with hormonal changes on weight loss and serum metabolic, inflammatory and liver parameters

Introduction. Beneficial effect of intragastric balloon (IGB) on weight loss and obesityrelated complications is still questionable and may be related to serum hormonal changes. Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the safety and benefits of IGB therapy associated with hormonal changes in peripheral blood. Material and methods. This was a prospective, observational study of 25 obese patients treated with an IGB with assessment of safety, weight loss, gastroesophageal reflux, serum laboratory tests, and circulating leptin and omentin. The consent of bioethical committee of Medical University of Bialystok, as well as written consent from all subjects were obtained. The study was supported by the Polish National Science Center grant No. N N402 456839. Results. A six-month IGB therapy resulted in a significant BMI decrease. The mean % total body weight loss at 6 months was 15.55 ± 8.96 and did not significantly change at 12 months. A 25% excess weight loss was achieved by 52 and 56% patients at 6 and 12 months, respectively. The therapy decreased mean levels of aminotransferases, glucose, C-reactive protein, hemoglobin A1c, and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Patients with % excess weight loss less than < 25 had significantly higher levels of leptin and lower levels of omentin. Leptin levels correlated with HOMA-IR, insulin, and alanine aminotransferase levels. Omentin levels correlated positively with HDL-cholesterol and negatively with alanine aminotransferase. Reflux esophagitis was found in 5 and 3 patients before and after therapy, respectively. The frequency of typical reflux symptoms did not differ significantly before and after therapy. There were no serious adverse events except one partial balloon deflation found on the day of its planned removal. Up to 80% patients were satisfied with therapy. Conclusions. IGB therapy is a safe and effective weight loss procedure and its beneficial effects on weight loss and several serum metabolic and liver function parameters are associated with hormonal changes.