The Endobariatrics Project Team at Darlington Memorial Hospital has been recognised for its groundbreaking work in tackling obesity, earning a finalist spot for the Outstanding NHS Industry Collaboration Award at the Bright Ideas in Health Awards.
The team’s Tackling the Obesity Epidemic project, developed in partnership with Boston Scientific Corporation, aims to address the growing burden of obesity in County Durham and the North East.
This collaborative effort between Bariatric Surgery, Gastroenterology, and Endoscopy has introduced a cutting-edge weight loss service leveraging endoscopic suturing - a pioneering alternative to conventional bariatric surgery.
Innovating Weight Loss Surgery
Currently, only 10–15% of eligible patients can access weight loss surgery through the NHS.
The Darlington team has become a leader in the Endobariatrics field, offering an innovative technique called endoscopic sutured gastroplasty.
This procedure reduces the stomach's capacity to achieve significant weight loss, mirroring the effectiveness of traditional bariatric surgery while offering:
- Shorter procedure times
- Faster recovery periods (typically less than one day in hospital)
After completing a two-year training programme, the team became the first in the North of England to introduce this service in 2022–2023.
To date, they have performed more than 15 procedures, ensuring patient safety through rigorous selection and expert proctoring.
Recognised as the preferred weight loss solution for patients with Class 2 and 3 obesity, this technique received NICE approval in 2024.
Long-term outcomes from the USA suggest sustained benefits lasting up to five years post-procedure.
Supporting National Health Priorities
The project aligns with NHS England and government objectives to reduce the healthcare burden of obesity-related cardiovascular risks and complications.
By addressing these issues proactively, the initiative contributes to a more sustainable healthcare system and improved patient outcomes.
Although the team did not take home the top prize, being named as a finalist among such strong contenders is an incredible achievement.
Congratulations to the Endobariatrics Project Team and all partners involved for their commitment to transforming patient care and advancing innovation in healthcare.
