Abstract:

Obesity is a chronic disease that increases the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. Current treatment methods for obesity mainly include lifestyle interventions, pharmacotherapy, and surgical procedures. Traditional lifestyle interventions result in a poor long-term compliance, and pharmacotherapy is often associated with side effects or weight regain. Although surgical procedures can lead to significant weight loss, they are limited by the invasiveness, high complication risks, and irreversibility. In recent years, endoscopic bariatric therapy has emerged as a safer and more effective treatment option due to its reversibility, minimal invasiveness, and cost-effectiveness. To standardize this approach in China, the National Clinical Medical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, in collaboration with experts in this field, developed the Chinese Expert Consensus on Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Treatment of Obesity. This article reviewed the key points of the consensus, aiming to enhance the understanding of endoscopic bariatric therapy among both healthcare providers and patients. The goal is to advance and refine endoscopic bariatric therapy while promoting academic exchange and expanding awareness of minimally invasive treatment options in China.

Key words: obesity, endoscopic bariatric therapy, minimally invasive surgical procedures, guideline interpretation