The OverStitch device is not limited to the treatment of obesity.
Endoscopic Management of Obesity
Endo-bariatric Apollo OverStitch System
Theodoros Argyropoulos, M.D., M.Sc., Ph.D.
Consultant Gastroenterologist, First Department
General Hospital of Athens “G. Gennimatas”
Scientific Director, Affidea Peristeri Gastroenterology Unit
Contents
What is Endoscopic Management of Obesity?
Obesity is currently one of the most common chronic conditions in the Western world, affecting not only a person’s health but also their psychology and overall quality of life.
Endoscopic management of obesity, also known as endo-bariatric intervention, is a minimally invasive solution that requires no incisions or surgery and supports meaningful and safe weight loss.
What is the Apollo OverStitch Endo-bariatric System?
The Apollo OverStitch is an innovative endoscopic suturing system applied through a gastroscope, without any external incisions.
It allows the gastroenterologist to reduce the size of the stomach by suturing it from the inside, resulting in:
reduced stomach capacity,
earlier sensation of fullness,
and gradual weight loss.
This technique can be used:
in patients who regain weight after a previous bariatric surgery (e.g. gastric bypass),
or as a standalone Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) for patients who prefer a non-surgical approach.
Who is it for?
The Apollo OverStitch method is applied in the following cases:
Individuals with a BMI over 30 who have not achieved weight loss through diet or exercise.
Patients who have regained weight after a gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.
Cases where surgery is contraindicated due to coexisting medical conditions.
Individuals seeking a less invasive approach with faster recovery time.
The final decision is made following a specialized medical and nutritional assessment under the guidance of Dr. Argyropoulos.
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure is performed in an anesthesia-controlled environment and typically lasts 60–90 minutes.
The patient receives general anesthesia.
Dr. Theodoros Argyropoulos inserts the endoscope through the mouth, without any incisions.
Using the Apollo OverStitch device, he places a series of internal sutures that reduce the size and capacity of the stomach.
A high-definition endoscopic camera ensures precision throughout the procedure.
The patient is usually discharged the same day or after a few hours of observation.
Η ανάρρωση είναι ταχεία, με επιστροφή στις δραστηριότητες μέσα σε 24–48 ώρες.
Applications of the Apollo OverStitch beyond weight loss
- It is also used for:
- For Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)
- For the management of bariatric surgery complications (e.g. leaks, fistulas, perforations)
- In advanced endoscopic therapies such as ESD (Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection), EMR (Endoscopic Mucosal Resection), and POEM (Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy)
- For suturing lesions or repairing tissue after surgical or endoscopic procedures
- It thus serves as a multifunctional tool in the hands of the interventional gastroenterologist.
The OverStitch device is not limited to obesity treatment alone.
Advantages of the Method
- Χρησιμοποιείται επίσης:
- No incisions, no scars: access is achieved orally, via endoscopy.
- Painless and safe procedure under anesthesia.
- Minimal hospitalization: usually just a few hours of stay.
- Fast recovery: return to daily activities within 1–2 days.
- Long-term results: endoscopic sutures significantly reduce the risk of stomach dilation.
- Repeatable: in cases of weight regain, the procedure can be repeated.
- No changes in nutrient absorption.
As with any medical procedure, the Apollo OverStitch has specific indications and contraindications.
It is not recommended for patients with:
- Severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Esophageal strictures or swallowing disorders
- Active ulcers or gastric inflammation
- Bleeding disorders or active gastrointestinal bleeding
Dr. Argyropoulos conducts a preliminary endoscopy and full medical evaluation to ensure the patient's suitability for the procedure.
Recovery and Follow-up
- The patient is usually discharged the same day.
- The diet begins with liquids and soft foods for 2–3 weeks.
- The medical team provides nutritional guidance and lifestyle counseling.
- Initial follow-up appointments are scheduled at 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months post-procedure.
Weight loss is gradual and is often accompanied by improvements in metabolic parameters (blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol levels).
Why Choose Dr. Argyropoulos
Dr. Theodoros Argyropoulos, M.D., M.Sc., Ph.D., offers:
- Certified expertise in interventional endoscopy and endo-bariatric medicine.
- Experience in ERCP, SpyGlass™, EUS, EMR, POEM, ESG, and the full range of intragastric techniques.
- Collaboration with anesthesiologists, nutritionists, and psychological support teams for holistic care.
- Personalized programs for endoscopic and metabolic recovery.
His goal is safe, natural weight loss with long-term maintenance of results.
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