The effect of different types of intragastric balloons with and without a behavior modification program in morbid obesity.

Two consecutive and matched groups of morbidly obese patients, i.e. group (1) and (2) were selected to be treated with Garren-Edward Bubble (18 patients) and the Danish-Ballobe (10 patients), respectively, and according to the American FDA criteria. All patients were put on 1000-1200 K. cal diet and given the choice to enroll in the behavior modification program (BMP) or not; (15) patients enrolled in it (group A) and (13) patients refused (group B). At the end of the treatment period (i.e. 3 months group 1; 4 months group 2) the mean loss in the body mass index (BMI) for group (1) and (2) were 5.46 +/- 4.6 kg/m(2), and 3.98 +/- 5.5 kg/m(2) respectively. With insignificant statistical difference (P>1.0). While the mean loss in the BMI was 7.17 +/- 4.54 kg/m(2) and 1.85 +/- 0.92 kg/m(2) for group A & B respectively. With a very significant statistical difference (P< 0.01). No major complication was noticed except that in two patients (group 1) and four patients (group 2), the ballon had to be removed within the first week of insertion due to intolerance. In conclusion, although both balloons are safe, they are weakly effective and the main effect could be attributed to the BMP.