Fundus Ablation is a minimally invasive weight-loss method that helps control appetite by targeting the hormone responsible for hunger: ghrelin. This innovative procedure reduces appetite and promotes sustainable weight loss without the need for surgery.

Gastric Fundus Ablation (GFA Procedure) is a non-surgical, endoscopic weight-loss method that reduces hunger by targeting the stomach’s fundus, a region responsible for producing the ghrelin hormone, also known as the "hunger hormone."

During the procedure, the mucosal lining of the gastric fundus is destroyed using thermal energy or radiofrequency technology. This results in a significant reduction in ghrelin production, which suppresses appetite and helps patients feel full after smaller meals.

Unlike bariatric surgeries like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, the GFA Procedure:

• Does not alter the stomach’s anatomy.
• Does not require surgical incisions.
• Provides a faster recovery with fewer risks.

The gastric fundus is the upper part of the stomach, just beneath the diaphragm. This area plays a vital role in regulating hunger because it houses ghrelin-producing cells.

• Ghrelin signals the brain’s hunger center, stimulating appetite and encouraging food intake.
• When ghrelin levels are high, you feel hungry.
• When ghrelin levels are low, you feel full and satisfied.

The Goal of Gastric Fundus Ablation (GFA Procedure):
By ablating the mucosa in the gastric fundus, ghrelin production is significantly reduced. This leads to appetite suppression and helps patients control portion sizes and calorie intake.

The GFA Procedure is performed using advanced endoscopic technology, which allows doctors to access the stomach without making incisions. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

1. Endoscopic Access
   
   • The procedure is performed under sedation.
   • A thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth to reach the gastric fundus.

1. Ablation of the Gastric Fundus
   
   • Using a thermal or radiofrequency device, the mucosal lining of the fundus is ablated (destroyed).
   • This process safely reduces the production of ghrelin.

1. Duration and Recovery
   
   • The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.
   • Most patients can return home the same day.

1. Results
   
   • Ghrelin levels drop significantly.
   • Patients experience reduced hunger and increased satiety, leading to sustained weight loss over time.

Gastric Fundus Ablation works by directly targeting ghrelin-producing cells in the stomach.

• Ghrelin is responsible for signaling hunger to the brain.
• After the GFA Procedure, ghrelin production in the stomach decreases significantly, resulting in:
  • Reduced appetite
  • Fewer hunger cravings
  • Improved portion control

This hormonal change mimics the effects of bariatric surgery but without altering the stomach's anatomy or function.

The GFA Procedure is designed for patients with mild to moderate obesity who are looking for a minimally invasive, non-surgical weight-loss option.

• Patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30–40.
• Those who are not candidates for bariatric surgery or prefer a less invasive approach.
• Patients who have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
• Individuals looking for an outpatient procedure with quick recovery.

• Patients with severe obesity (BMI > 40).
• Those with active stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Patients with a history of severe GERD or other conditions affecting the stomach lining.

1. Minimally Invasive:
   
   • No incisions or permanent changes to the stomach’s anatomy.
   • Reduced risk of complications compared to bariatric surgery.

1. Targets Hunger Hormones:
   
   • Directly reduces ghrelin levels, leading to long-term appetite suppression.

1. Quick Recovery Time:
   
   • Most patients return to daily activities within 24–48 hours.

1. No Nutritional Deficiencies:
   
   • Unlike bariatric surgery, the GFA Procedure does not affect the absorption of nutrients, meaning no risk of long-term vitamin deficiencies.

1. Safe and Effective:
   
   • Early studies show significant weight loss with minimal side effects.

While results vary from patient to patient, here’s what you can typically expect:

• Weight Loss:
  
  • Most patients lose 10–15% of their total body weight within the first 6–12 months.
• Appetite Control:
  
  • A significant reduction in hunger and cravings.
• Sustainability:
  
  • Weight loss is maintained with proper dietary and lifestyle changes.

While the GFA Procedure is considered safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and limitations.

• Temporary nausea, bloating, or abdominal discomfort.
• Rare cases of bleeding or injury to the stomach lining.

• The GFA Procedure may not provide sufficient weight loss for patients with severe obesity.
• The effects may diminish over time as the stomach’s mucosa regenerates, requiring repeat treatments.

Gastric Fundus Ablation (GFA Procedure) and bariatric surgery, such as gastric bypass, are both effective weight-loss treatments, but they differ significantly in approach, risks, and suitability:

1. Invasiveness:
   
   • The GFA Procedure is minimally invasive and performed endoscopically, requiring no surgical incisions.
   • Bariatric surgery is an invasive surgical procedure that involves incisions and anatomical alterations to the stomach and/or intestines.

1. Anatomical Changes:
   
   • GFA does not involve permanent changes to the stomach’s structure, preserving its natural anatomy.
   • Bariatric surgery involves permanent alterations, such as reducing stomach size or bypassing parts of the digestive tract.

1. Risk of Complications:
   
   • The GFA Procedure carries a lower risk of complications, as it avoids the risks associated with major surgery.
   • Bariatric surgery carries a higher risk of complications, including leaks, infections, and blood clots.

1. Recovery Time:
   
   • Recovery from the GFA Procedure is quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within 24–48 hours.
   • Recovery from bariatric surgery can take 2–4 weeks, depending on the procedure and individual healing.

1. Patient Suitability:
   
   • The GFA Procedure is suitable for patients with mild to moderate obesity (Body Mass Index, BMI: 30–40).
   • Bariatric surgery is more appropriate for patients with severe obesity (BMI > 40) or those with significant obesity-related health conditions.

In summary, GFA is a safer, less invasive option for patients seeking appetite control and weight loss without surgery, while bariatric surgery is better suited for those with severe obesity or who require more dramatic weight loss.

The GFA Procedure is an exciting and innovative weight-loss solution for patients seeking a minimally invasive, hormone-focused treatment. If you’re struggling with hunger control and portion sizes, this procedure may be the right option for you.