Endoscopic Intragastric Balloon Placement for Weight Loss in Liver Transplant Waitlist Candidates

The prevalence of obesity and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in the general population is increasing. More and more patients with underlying NASH-related cirrhosis are now being referred to transplant centers but are not candidates for a potentially lifesaving liver transplantation due to their obesity and comorbidities related to the obesity. The investigators proposed a clinical pilot study using the new FDA approved intragastric balloon in obese patients (BMI \>35) with cirrhosis in need of liver transplantation, to assess weight loss and metabolic improvement. The ORBERA™ Intragastric Balloon is an elastic spherical balloon made of silicone, filled with 650ml of saline solution. The deflated balloon comes preloaded on a catheter, which is advanced transorally into the stomach. An endoscope is then advanced alongside it to ensure accurate placement of the balloon in the fundus. Under direct visualization, the balloon is then inflated by injecting saline solution mixed with methylene blue through the external portion of the catheter. The ORBERA™ Intragastric Balloon is implanted for 6 months and then retrieved endoscopically by puncturing the balloon with a needle, emptying the fluid content, and removing it through the mouth. Both placement and removal of the ORBERA™ Balloon are done as an outpatient procedure with monitored or general anesthesia.