Intragastric balloon left in the stomach for more than a year: two case reports.

OBJECTIVE Intragastric balloon (IGB) is often used to achieve short-term weight reduction in morbidly obese patients. It is placed endoscopically for a 6-month-period either in the pre-bariatric surgery setting and also in cases where no bariatric surgery is planned. Prolonged implantation may be accompanied by serious complications. CASE REPORTS We herein report two cases of extraction of intact IGBs long time after their placement. CONCLUSION Although no adverse events were observed, adherence to manufacturers' recommendations is definitely suggested.