New device shown to block the absorption of some fats, limiting risk of type 2 diabetes
Obesity is the leading cause of type 2 diabetes, but a new device being marketed by a Massachusetts-based company may help many people avoid developing the metabolic condition as a result of overeating.
GI Dynamics recently announced that their EndoBarrier may soon become available for use. It is currently being used in Chile, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands and Australia and is under investigation by U.S. regulators.
The system works by inserting a tube down a patient’s throat, through their stomach and into the beginning of their lower intestine. The plastic sleeve blocks the absorption of many nutrients, including fat, by the intestine, preventing the accumulation of excess food energy.
Clinical trials involving the EndoBarrier have yielded strong results. In one study, researchers demonstrated that after 12 months of use, participants lost, on average, 20 percent of their body weight. In another study, investigators found that use of the device resulted in significant improvements in HbA1c test results, indicating that individuals with type 2 diabetes experienced gains in their long-term blood sugar control.
“We now have data demonstrating the safety and efficacy of 12 months of EndoBarrier therapy in clinically obese patients and the impact this treatment approach has on related health issues such as hypertension, dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome,” said Alex Escalona, MD, a researcher from the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Santiago, Chile, who investigated the device.
The company believes that the device could offer individuals a safe, effective and less intrusive alternative to weight loss surgeries. This may have significant implications, as recovery time following the procedure is generally shorter and people are able to get back to their normal lives more quickly.
GI Dynamics recently announced that their EndoBarrier may soon become available for use. It is currently being used in Chile, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands and Australia and is under investigation by U.S. regulators.
The system works by inserting a tube down a patient’s throat, through their stomach and into the beginning of their lower intestine. The plastic sleeve blocks the absorption of many nutrients, including fat, by the intestine, preventing the accumulation of excess food energy.
Clinical trials involving the EndoBarrier have yielded strong results. In one study, researchers demonstrated that after 12 months of use, participants lost, on average, 20 percent of their body weight. In another study, investigators found that use of the device resulted in significant improvements in HbA1c test results, indicating that individuals with type 2 diabetes experienced gains in their long-term blood sugar control.
“We now have data demonstrating the safety and efficacy of 12 months of EndoBarrier therapy in clinically obese patients and the impact this treatment approach has on related health issues such as hypertension, dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome,” said Alex Escalona, MD, a researcher from the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Santiago, Chile, who investigated the device.
The company believes that the device could offer individuals a safe, effective and less intrusive alternative to weight loss surgeries. This may have significant implications, as recovery time following the procedure is generally shorter and people are able to get back to their normal lives more quickly.
First published on: August 8, 2011
Related Resources
