EndoBarrier - What is the EndoBarrier?

EndoBarrier is a weight loss aid

The EndoBarrier is a medical device for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity which is worn inside of the body.

It is a thin plastic sleeve which lines the first 60cm of the small intestine, causing food to be absorbed further down in the intestine.

The body reacts to food in a different way when the first part of the small intestine is blocked.

This helps aid weight loss and reduction of blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

How is the EndoBarrier fitted?

The procedure can be performed in under an hour, with the patient under anaesthetic. The sleeve is inserted via the mouth, through the stomach to the small intestine where it is fixed in place by a sprung metal anchor to prevent it slipping out.

How does the EndoBarrier work?

The EndoBarrier works by preventing the body from digesting food within the upper part of the small intestine. Cutting out this part of digestion means that the body reacts differently to food you eat. You feel more full after a smaller meal. The liner also changes the way the body manages blood sugar so that in most patients their blood sugar level rapidly come down into the normal range.

The concept is therefore similar to that of having as gastric bypass, but does not involve invasive surgery, is safer, not permanent and is less expensive

Can I apply to try the EndoBarrier?

Currently the NHS is running trials involving 60 patients who will have the EndoBarrier fitted. As at the beginning of December, 2010, this trial is almost fully recruited.

The trial is being run by the following centres within the UK:

• Imperial College/St. Mary’s Hospital, London
• The National Obesity Surgery Centre, Manchester
• Southampon University Hospital, Southampton

There is also a private hospital that is taking part in this trial. Patients are recruited for a much lower cost compared to the actual cost of the procedure.

• St Anthonys Hospital, Cheam, London

Who is the EndoBarrier suitable for?

The Endobarrier is suitable for people:

• With type 2 diabetes
• Aged 18 – 60 years old
• With a BMI between 30 and 50
• And an HbA1c between 7.5 and 10.5%
• And taking either oral glycemics or less than 150 units per day

Would anything rule out having the EndoBarrier?

The most common conditions which would prevent a patient having the EndoBarrier are:

• Stomach ulcers (peptic ulcers)
• Bleeding disorders (eg people with haemophilia or on anti-arthritis drugs)
• Major digestive surgery in the past

The NHS trials are not taking patients who are taking medication such as Exenatide and Victoza.

Can I get the EndoBarrier from a private clinic?

Pending the success of the trial, the EndoBarrier could be available through private clinics as early as mid-2011.

How much would the EndoBarrier cost?

The process would likely cost in the region of £7,000.

Does the Endobarrier work?

In a previous 12 month study, participants lost an average of 3.5 stones in weight (22 Kg). 83% of patients with type 2 diabetes experienced a decrease in their HbA1c to under 7.0%, with a considerable percentage of these people able to come off their diabetes medication altogether.

The fact that digestion is delayed by the sleeve, changes the way the body’s hormones are activated, which helps the body feel full and improves glucose tolerance.

Are there any side effects of having the EndoBarrier?

Those interested in having the EndoBarrier should be aware that they may experience one or more of the following side effects:

• Abdominal pain on the right side
• Bloating

In earlier trials, the EndoBarrier had to be removed, in a small percentage of cases, after becoming dislodged. However, the sprung anchor has since been improved.