Novel incision-free procedure leads to weight loss

Washington, May 07 (ANI): Science continues to provide new ways for obese people to lose weight. The latest offering being an incision-free procedure to correct stomachs that have stretched in patients who had gastric bypass surgery.

Weight gain after gastric bypass surgery is common. Over time, the small stomach pouch created by the surgery stretches out. More calories are consumed and the feeling of fullness after eating disappears.

However, the minimally invasive procedure, called ROSE (Restorative Obesity Surgery, Endolumenal), being offered at UC San Diego Medical Center can correct this problem.

During an outpatient procedure, a small, flexible endoscope and tools are inserted through the mouth, down the esophagus, and into the stomach pouch.

The tools, developed by USGI Medical Inc., are used to grasp, fold and stitch tissue to reduce both the diameter of the stomach opening and the volume of the stomach pouch. No cuts are made into the patient's skin.

Maria Rusak, 53, resident of San Diego, suffered from obesity and related health complications such as arthritis, high blood pressure and gallstones. Nine years ago, she pursued gastric bypass surgery to lose the weight.

"My gastric bypass required a long recovery starting with a stay in the intensive care unit and ending with large scars on my abdomen. When I heard about a procedure that could tighten up my stomach without incisions, I said 'sign me up,'" said Rusak.

"I experienced weight loss right away. I have lost 50 pounds in the last eight months. I feel incredible. I am having my clothes taken in at the tailor's. My pants are down to a size 14. I am the 'new me' again," Rusak added.

The most common side effect of the one-hour procedure is a sore throat. (ANI)