Allurion Technologies Inc. announced that the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust (FT) is the first NHS trust in the United Kingdom, and the first non-private sector organisation in the world, to introduce the Allurion Gastric Balloon - the world's only swallowable gastric balloon that requires no surgery, no endoscopy and no anaesthesia1. Once allowed, the balloon is filled and remains in the stomach for approximately 4 months, after which it self-empties and passes out naturally. It is proven to help patients lose an average of 10-15% of their body weight after approximately four months2.

Studies show that on average, 96% of weight loss can be sustained 1 year after the balloon passes3. To date, there have been more than 30 peer-reviewed studies conducted worldwide, demonstrating that the Allurion Balloon is a safe and effective way to lose weight4. The first two patients to receive the treatment were treated at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust's (FT) Musgrove Park Hospital in November, under the care of Professor Richard Welbourn, consultant bariatric surgeon at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust.

A further three NHS placements are due to take place in early February, with up to a dozen others also scheduled to have this potentially life changing procedure. Somerset FT has provided the Allurion Program to two patients. The Allurion Virtual Care Suite is also available to providers separately from the Allurion Program to help customize, monitor and manage weight loss therapy for patients regardless of their treatment plan: gastric balloon, surgical, medical or nutritional.

The Allurion Gastric Balloon is an investigational device in the United States.