What happens if the gastric balloon deflates spontaneously?
The surgeon will place a colored dye inside the balloon called Methelyene Blue. This will help you clearly identify early deflation or leakage as it will change the color of your urine. The balloon is small enough that it may pass through the intestines and leave the body naturally, but there have been some cases in which it has had to be removed from the bowel surgically. If you suspect a deflation, you must notify us immediately. My doctor has never had a balloon deflate, but the more time that goes by the easier it is to digest. With the new balloons and their smaller valve we don’t see a problem with it getting lodged in the bowels. How Will the Gastric Balloon Be Removed? The balloon is removed in the same way it was placed, via the esophagus and mouth. Using an endoscopic camera, the physician will introduce a catheter through the mouth and into the stomach. The balloon will then be punctured and deflated. Once the balloon is deflated it can be grasped and removed. How Much Weigh
