Left Gastric Artery Embolization In Management of Obesity for Hepatic Patients

Abstract

SUMMARY AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS P reliminary results of BAE studies are promising and have proven that it has the potential to reach the efficacy of bariatric surgery. The procedure is safe and effective in the short and intermediate terms causing substantial weight loss with minimal related complications. Yet, all the mentioned studies are Phase 1 pilot studies. Further randomized control trials are needed to prove its long term safety, durability (possible upregulation of Ghrelin levels on the long term) and to assess the role of mental and emotional component on food consumption and weight loss in the candidates. Future plans should be directed towards improving the effectiveness of the procedure, defining the most suitable candidates for the procedure and exploring the possibility of using alternative embolic agents. Increasing experience and awareness about radial access should also be considered as a safer alternative for obese patients.