Delaware physicians perform first Reshape Dual Balloon System procedure in state

Almost one in three adults is overweight or obese in the state of Delaware. Two physicians at the Christiana Institute of Advanced Surgery are trying to help change that through a new procedure approved by the FDA last July.

Dr. Isaias Irgau and the Dr. Caitlin Halbert are the first in the state to do it. They use a Reshape Dual Balloon System. It’s for patients with a BMI between thirty and forty, who haven’t succeeded in diet and exercise alone.

The dual balloon is inserted in the stomach endoscopically and filled with saline. It stays in the stomach for up to six months. So far, the doctors have performed three procedures. Their first patient lost seven pounds in the first two weeks.

Dr. Halbert says, “It’s really not the cosmetic weight loss that we’re looking for. It’s the health benefits that we’re looking for. Literally as people lose weight they gain years back on their life. That’s a primary goal for patients.”

While the balloon is in the patient’s stomach, and six months after it’s removed, they receive counseling to maintain their progress.