VBLOC Therapy Test Results

News | Adelaide Bariatric Centre

If you’re looking for a non-invasive weight loss surgery alternative, VBLOC therapy is the way to go.

This popular new weight loss surgery procedure is becoming increasingly sought after both here in Australia and overseas, and with the Maestro Vagal Blocking system having recently been endorsed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) we can expect to hear a lot more about VBLOC over the coming years.

First released in 2011 by a company called EntereoMedics, VBLOC therapy is delivered by a pacemaker-like device called the Maestro Rechargeable System, a system designed to control hunger and fullness by blocking the primary nerve which regulates our digestive system. However it wasn’t until this year that truly solid data was available on the true efficacy of this groundbreaking technology.

The ReCharge Pivotal Trial of VBLOC

This recent study conducted by EntereoMedics put the Maestro Rechargeable System to the test, and revealed some interesting results. The clinical trial involved 239 randomised patients located across ten sites in the US and Australia, and Maestro was found to be an incredibly effective weight loss treatment.

All patients received an implanted device, with half the subjects receiving the actual vagal blocking mechanism and the other half receiving a sham device. Following their surgery, patients were expected to participate in a complementary weight management counselling programme.

The Results

The treated patients demonstrated a statistically significant excess weight loss over the 12 month testing period of 24.4%, with the majority (52.5%) losing 20% or more of their excess weight. The 24.4% average far exceeds the 10% to 15% thresholds at which patients experience substantial positive health effects.

The results led to statistically significant improvements being observed in the VBLOC therapy treatment group in total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate and waist circumference.

“These study results, along with multi-year data from our earlier clinical trials, demonstrate durability of effect and a superior record of safety, underscoring the attractive benefit risk profile of VBLOC Therapy,” said Dr Mark B Knudson, EnteroMedics' President and CEO. “If approved, VBLOC may help to address the lifelong challenges associated with obesity by offering a treatment option that supports safe, long-term weight loss and a healthy lifestyle.”