Aspiration therapy for obesity; a safe and effective treatment

Abstract Background This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the novel AspireAssist® Aspiration Therapy System for treatment of obesity, and its effect on patient’s quality of life. Methods A prospective observational study with 25 obese subjects, mean age 48 years (range 33–65), was performed. A custom gastrostomy tube (A-tube, Aspire Bariatrics) was percutaneously inserted during a gastroscopy performed under conscious sedation. Drainage and irrigation of the stomach were performed 3 times daily, 20 min after each meal, for 1–2 years. Efficient aspiration required thorough chewing of ingested food. Treatment included a cognitive behavioral weight loss program. Results Mean body mass index (BMI) at inclusion was 39.8 kg/m 2 (range 35–49). After 1 year mean (SD) BMI was 32.1 kg/m 2 (5.4), p p p 2 (5.1), p p Conclusions Aspiration therapy is an efficient and safe treatment for obesity, and weight reduction improves quality of life. Excess weight was approximately halved in a year, with weight stability if treatment was continued. Trial registration Trial Register ISRCTN 49958132 . Retrospectively registered 28/02/2014.