Gastric Artery Embolisation
Gastric artery embolisation is a newer, minimally invasive procedure in which tiny beads are used to reduce the blood supply to part of the stomach.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Gastric artery embolisation is a newer, minimally invasive procedure in which tiny beads are used to reduce the blood supply to part of the stomach. This lowers levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin, helping people feel full sooner. It is performed through a small tube in the wrist or groin, without any cuts to the stomach.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Gastric artery embolisation (GAE) is an interventional radiology technique that delivers embolic microspheres into the left gastric artery to reduce perfusion of the gastric fundus, where ghrelin-producing cells are concentrated. Early clinical studies report reductions in fasting ghrelin, appetite, and body weight with a favourable safety profile. It is an emerging, less invasive alternative to bariatric surgery for selected patients with obesity, although long-term efficacy and durability data are still being established.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
For patients who do not qualify for, or prefer to avoid, surgery, Accord can discuss emerging options such as gastric artery embolisation as part of a personalised treatment plan.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.