Dr. Yannis Raftopoulos Presents Research at European Obesity Summit

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Medical Center’s Dr. Yannis Raftopoulos, a board-certified bariatric surgeon and weight-management specialist, presented new research on the first procedureless gastric balloon at this year’s European Obesity Summit in Gothenberg, Sweden on June 1-4. Raftopoulos’ research shows the new product to be safe, with similar weight-loss results as other balloon procedures that use endoscopy.

Traditional gastric balloons for weight loss require endoscopy for placement and removal. However, a new type of balloon called Elipse, manufactured by Allurion Technologies in Wellesley, is the first procedureless gastric balloon. The balloon is swallowed, resides in the stomach for four months, and is then excreted. Raftopoulos conducted a European clinical trial in Greece. Allurion Technologies intends to conduct a randomized, controlled clinical trial in the U.S. in the future.

“The weight loss observed was similar to that seen in prior studies of endoscopically placed balloons,” Raftopoulos said. “There were no serious adverse events. In addition, Elipse therapy led to a significant improvement in waist circumference, Hemoglobin A1c levels, and overall quality of life.”

Added Spiros Hatiras, president and CEO of Holyoke Medical Center and Valley Health Systems, “Holyoke Medical Center is proud to provide the Pioneer Valley with an innovative and experienced international physician such as Dr. Raftopoulos. This new technique for which he has experience offering may prove to revolutionize the field when it becomes available.

Raftopoulos is medical director of the Holyoke Medical Center Weight Management Program, located at 10 Hospital Dr., Suite 103, Holyoke. To schedule an appointment, call (413) 535-4757.