Stomach-Draining Device Makes Play For Obesity Surgery Patients

Approved as a long-term treatment option for obese patients with a body-mass index of 35 to 55, Aspire Bariatrics is positioning its AspireAssist device as a less-invasive alternative to bariatric surgery in the population of morbidly obese individuals who are most often recommended for a procedure. The system includes an endoscopically implanted tube and a port used by the patient to drain contents of the stomach and reduce calories absorbed.