Watch CBS News

New Weight Loss Device Drains Food From Stomach To Toilet

WASHINGTON (CBS) – The FDA has signed off on a new treatment to help obese people lose weight.

The recently approved AspireAssist device is a surgically-placed tube connected to the stomach that can drain up to 30 percent of calories after every meal.

"Approximately 20 to 30 minutes after meal consumption, the patient attaches the device's external connector and tubing to the port valve, opens the valve and drains the contents," the FDA explains. "Once opened, it takes approximately five to 10 minutes to drain food matter through the tube and into the toilet."

aspireassist obesity
The AspireAssist device (Image credit FDA)

Patients who used the device for a year lost more than 12 percent of their body weight, the FDA said.

The treatment is only intended for obese patients, not the moderately overweight or people with eating disorders.

The FDA says patients who undergo the procedure also should be closely monitored by doctors who can help them develop healthier eating and lifestyle habits.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.