Clinical trials of an experimental gastric pacemaker have started in the US and Europe. The new technique involves the surgical implantation of a modified cardiac pacemaker under the skin and the insertion of the lead into the wall of the stomach. It is thought that the electrical impulses from the pacemaker act to reduce the appetite of the patient. Preliminary trials have produced some positive results, however, the effectiveness of the treatment cannot be evaluated until completion of the trials.
SOURCE/REFERENCE: 22nd meeting of the European Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
