Intragastric balloons are steadily gaining popularity among the medical treatments available for obesity. Their efficacy and safety are reinforced by growing body of evidence obtained around the globe. Intragastric balloons are now considered one of the safest and most effective medical procedures for weight reduction. Additionally, the reduced potential for side effects and low invasiveness (compared to bariatric surgeries) are important considerations.
This book is edited by renowned surgeons and endoscopists from Brazil, a country known for its reputation on the field of bariatric endoscopy and surgery. Such reputation is especially valid where the use of intragastric balloons is concerned. These devices, approved by the FDA only in 2015, have been used in Brazil since the 1990s, attesting to Brazilian expertise in the field. This book describes the various types of intragastric balloons used for the treatment of obesity, an alternative to bariatric surgery and other more invasive methods. It addresses their indications, procedures and outcomes, providing readers an overview of the therapeutic options available worldwide. It is divided into seven main sections: I - Introductory Issues; II - Devices; III - Technical Procedures and Related Issues; IV - Acute Complications and Treatment; V - Chronic Complications and Treatment; VI - Special Populations; and VII - Miscellaneous. This structure helps to promote a better knowledge construction and a reasonable flow of ideas throughout the book, guiding the reader from introductory topics to surgical procedures and complications.
The book ultimately intends to offer an essential reference guide for all physicians and surgeons interested in the treatment of obese patients. It is intended for both experienced professionals looking for in-depth information and for trainees and residents seeking to broaden their perspectives concerning the treatment of obesity.

Manoel Galvão Neto: MD from the Bahiana School of Medicine and Public Health (1989) followed by a residency in Digestive and Surgery at July 9th Hospital (São Paulo, Brazil). Invited Professor of Surgical Techniques at Bahiana School (1993-1998), Coordinator of the Experimental Surgery Research Group and Assistant Professor (1998-2000). Specialist certified by the Brazilian College of Digestive Surgery (CBCD, 1992), the Brazilian Federation of Gastroenterology (FBG, 1995) and the Brazilian Society of Digestive Endoscopy (SOBED, 2011). Affiliated Professor of Surgery at ABC University in Santo Andre (Brazil) and appointed as faculty for the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Department of Surgery (Miami, USA). Dr. Galvão has extensive experience in foregut surgery and interventional endoscopy and international practice with surgical and endoscopic privileges granted in 8 hospitals in São Paulo, Chile, Colombia, and Spain. Lyz Bezerra Silva: MD from the Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Brazil (2011). Residency in General Surgery at Agamenon Magalhães Hospital, Recife, Brazil (2015). Master's in Surgery from UFPE (2017). Specialist certified in Bariatric Surgery by the Brazilian Society of Bariatric Surgery - SBCBM (2017) and Nutrology by the Brazilian Society of Nutrology - Abran (2018). Coordinator of the Research Group on Obesity and Metabolic Surgery at UFPE. Fellow in Medical Informatics and Scientific Research at the University of Texas and Duke University. Member of the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO). Eduardo Nobuyuki Usuy Jr.: MD from the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Brazil (2001). Residency in Gastroenterology at São Paulo State University, Brazil (2005). MBA in Digital Marketing from Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV). Former President of the Society of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy of Santa Catarina State. Chairman of Digital Affairs Committee of the Brazilian Federation of Gastroenterology (FBG). International M