Bariatric embolization using medium (100-300μm), and large (300-500μm) calibrated microspheres: assessing safety, long-term efficacy and changes in gut hormones in a swine model

of the stomach were coil or gelfoam embolized. Particular attention were made for diaphragmatic and left hepatic branches. The left gastric artery was then embolized with PVA particles. Embolization was performed until stasis. Patients were discharged on the day of the procedure. Patient were followed up at one week post procedure and monthly afterward. Monthly weight was obtained. Ghrelin levels were not measured prior or after LGAE. Results: Procedure was successful in all patients.Typical complaint was a subjective burning sensation at first few meals which resolved on its own. There were no report of long-term complication by the time this abstract was being prepared. Patient were able to feed normally post procedure. All patient reported an immediate decrease in their appetite. Loss of appetite was described as loss of interest in eating, absence of urge to eat and early satiety. This pattern persisted even in the 9 months-follow up patient. Gradual loss of weight was noted in all patients. Initial average BMI of 30.5 dropped to 27. All patients has a loss of 1-1.5 kg per month reaching up to 18 Kg in the longest followed patient (initial weight of 130 kg) and 1 kg in the 1 month follow up patient. Conclusions: Our small series follows initial reported results in LGAE for treatment of obesity. LGAE, a long-time procedure used for treating active upper GI bleeding is well tolerated and is highly suggestive of positive results for control of appetite and overweight in a safe and minimally invasive manner.