A new weight loss treatment is making a big impression on doctors and patients. The Endobarrier could be an inexpensive solution for those with type two diabetes and obesity. While it’s not currently available in the United States, the manufacturer is considering new U.S. clinical trials. The device is available in England.
Just What Is an Endobarrier?
This device is a sleeve made with a thin layer of plastic featuring an expanding metal ring at one end. The ring holds it in place at the beginning of the small intestine, and the sleeve extends about two feet further. So far, the temporary device has been left in place for about one year before removal from patients.
Its purpose is to keep food from being absorbed by much of the small intestine. Previous studies and clinical trials have shown that the Endobarrier succeeds in this goal and also helps keep blood sugar levels down.
Benefits of the Device
Some diabetics report a return to normal blood sugar levels within a few days of it being inserted. Patients also seem to be able to maintain their lowered blood glucose levels and weight for up to six months after removal. Other benefits doctors have found include:
- dramatic weight loss
- reduction in hunger
- patients eat less
The procedure to install it via the mouth is also less invasive, taking about an hour to complete with the patient under anesthesia.
Drawbacks to Consider
Before you go in search of this new treatment option, be aware that there are a few drawbacks. It has a 10 percent complication rate, which sometimes requires early removal. The complications reported are usually liver abscesses or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Since this isn’t available in the United States as of 2017, you’ll also need to go out of the country to apply for the procedure. As a very new treatment to hit the market, there may still be much to learn about its long-term effects too.
[expand title=”References“]
British Doctors Trial Simple Gut Operation That ‘Cures Or Controls’ Diabetes. URL Link. Accessed July 1, 2017.
ABCD Endobarrier Study: 1-Year Results, Including 10-Year CV Risk Assessment – Dr. Bob Ryder, 2016. URL Link. Accessed July 1, 2017.
EndoBarrier – What is the EndoBarrier? URL Link. Accessed July 1, 2017.
Can the Endobarrier Help Obese Diabetics Running out of Options? URL Link. Accessed July 1, 2017.
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