Highlights of Orbera
The Orbera gastric balloon system has been in use for years around the world, and was finally approved in the US in 2015. It is designed for overweight clients who desire to lose 25 lbs. or more and have a maximum BMI of 40. Clients who have undergone a gastric bypass, gastric banding or sleeve gastrectomy would not be considered candidates for Orbera.
The Orbera balloon is inserted endoscopically through the mouth down to the abdomen, where it is filled with 550 cc of sterilized saline. The single-sphered implant floats freely in the stomach cavity, creating a feeling of fullness so that you are less likely to overeat at mealtimes. The balloon stays in place for only six months, so it is considered a temporarily weight loss solution.
Highlights of Reshape
Reshape is the newest gastric balloon on the block, approved by the FDA for use in the United States in 2015. Reshape is designed to complement the natural inner contours of the stomach, improving gastric balloon comfort and tolerance. It comes with innovative dual-sphere engineering, along with added safety protocols.
Each of its two resilient, silicone bubbles are filled with 450 cc of saline solution (900 cc total), making it among the most aggressive non-surgical weight loss solutions available. With more abdominal space filled, the client experiences even less hunger and cravings.
Like Orbera, the Reshape gastric balloon device is inserted through the mouth and throat with the help of an endocope, which guides it down to the belly. Patients are mildly sedated and the whole procedure takes only 30 minutes on average. No incisions or suturing is necessary, as the procedure is non-surgical and non-invasive.
In terms of safety, Reshape’s dual balloon systems means that if one bubble is compromised, the other stays put, preventing dangerous device migration or shifting, which can harm inner organs. Also, the Reshape saline is tinted turquoise, so in the very unlikely event of rupture, the patient can see evidence in their urine and call their doctor right away.
While Reshape is highly successful for moderately Obese folks and those who are trying to qualify for gastric banding or a gastric bypass, it does require that the patient have a history of co-morbidity, or an additional obesity-related health issue such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or sleep apnea.
This chart creates an at-a-glance visual of the key differences between Orbera and Reshape:
Orbera Gastric Balloon
One sphere
550cc
Free-floating
Co-morbidities not required
Reshape Gastric Balloon
Two spheres
900cc (2 spheres)
Snug, shapely fit placement
Co-morbidities required
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