Spatz FAQ

The Spatz3 balloon is gently introduced into your body and occupies around one-third of your stomach. This smart technology diminishes your stomach's food-holding capacity and delays stomach emptying, encouraging healthier eating habits.

• Dynamic Adjustability: Adaptation is essential, and so is the Spatz3 balloon's ability to adjust its volume according to your evolving needs.
• Extended Implantation Period: Unlike other solutions, the Spatz3 offers longer implantation, allowing for sustained behavioral modifications and lasting results.

Our process starts with a consultation, and depending on your medical history, a variety of medical tests. If no abnormalities are found, the Spatz3 balloon is introduced into the stomach through the mouth and then filled with sterile saline via a small tube. The entire process takes about 15 minutes and is followed by approximately an hour of monitoring before you're ready to head home.

The Spatz3 Intragastric balloon is designed for individuals with over 10 kilograms or more (22 lbs or more) of weight to lose, or those with a BMI exceeding 27. It's also a great noninvasive alternative for individuals seeking weight loss support without traditional surgical options.

Throughout the twelve-month placement period (outside of the US), AGH's approach includes the provision of oral medication to minimize stomach irritation.

AGH's care involves a unique safeguard. The balloon contains a blue liquid that would turn your urine green if a leak occurs. In such cases, immediate contact with our team is crucial to ensure swift balloon removal.

The intragastric balloon is a tool, working in harmony with a structured diet, exercise regimen, and behavioral modifications. Weight loss success, typically ranging from 16 kg (35 lbs) to 25 kg (55 lbs), is rooted in your commitment to lasting lifestyle changes.

Initial discomfort like nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain of varying intensity is common. While our physicians can prescribe medication to minimize these effects, they may persist during the first week.

In line with our holistic approach, AGH recommends three to four days of inactivity, with a gradual return to your normal activities based on your body's response to the balloon. For the first three days post-insertion, a liquid-only diet is required.

AGH emphasizes collaboration between you, your doctor, and a dietician/nutrition counselor. Regular meetings offer progress evaluation and invaluable insights into health, nutrition, and exercise, laying the foundation for sustained success.

After two to four months, an uncomplicated 15-minute endoscopy procedure, performed with the aid of conscious sedation, allows for volume changes based on your comfort and progress. Prior to your adjustment, a three-day liquid diet is required

When it's time for removal, AGH employs the same 15-minute gentle endoscopy process used for placement, ensuring a quick and comfortable experience.

Following the initial week of adjustment, and once you feel your body has fully adjusted to the balloon, you can resume your normal activities.

AGH advises moderate alcohol consumption, such as two glasses of wine per week, as alcohol consumption can raise the risk of developing an ulcer.

AGH's approach encourages balanced eating, as excessive overeating may cause discomfort, bloating, belching, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and cramping, as well as impede your progress.

Combining the intragastric balloon with a well-rounded full-body exercise routine can accelerate your weight loss journey. Consider joining a sports group to help keep you consistent and make exercise more enjoyable.