Mechanical ileus induces surgical intervention due to gastric balloon: a case report and review of the literature.

A temporary non-surgical approach for treatment of obesity is the gastric balloon that serves as an alternative procedure for many patients with frustrated diet attempts. Deflation and displacement of the balloon resulting in acute intestinal obstruction and subsequent surgical intervention is a rare complication. A BioEnterics Intragastric Balloon was endoscopically implanted in a 35-year-old female with a body mass index (BMI) of 28 kg/m(2). The procedure succeeded without complications, and weight loss was effective during the first 6 months. One year after balloon implantation, the patient presented with abdominal cramps and vomiting due to ileal obstruction. Since endoscopic efforts to remove the deflated and displaced balloon failed, emergency laparotomy and enterotomy were necessary. Vascularization of the dilated small bowel was compromised, but recovered after decompression. Patients' postoperative course was uneventful. The gastric balloon model can be associated with major complications and should be used critically. Removal of the balloon should be assured not later than 6 months when weight loss decreases.