Background

Obesity is an increasing challenge for the United States Military. Active duty personnel are prohibited from undergoing permanent surgical procedures for weight loss. We present twelve active duty service members who were unsuccessful in remaining within Navy Weight Standards by diet and exercise alone.

Methods

We enrolled twelve active duty patients who qualified for intragastric balloon (IGB) per FDA-guidelines and were interested in the program with intent to remove the IGB after 6 months. Weight loss data is examined at 6 months after IGB placement using data available from our institution's Bariatric Surgery Registry, the electronic medical record, and patient surveys.

Results

The IGB resulted in weight loss for all 11 of the patients for whom complete data is available. The mean BMI of the patient's decreased 2.96 (SD=1.2) representing a mean 20% loss of excess body weight. Mean EBW loss is 21.3 lb (range 7-58 lb). Weight loss is based on 6 month follow up from IGB placement which is available for 11 of 12 enrollees. Most complications presented are minor, however one patient experienced a major complication requiring operative repair.

Conclusions

The IGB is an effective temporary reversible endoscopic weight loss procedure available to active duty patients with obesity. Despite one complication requiring early urgent device removal and surgical repair, the device appears safe for use in the active duty population. Further research is needed to determine if the IGB can improve readiness, increase retention of personnel.