A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
The International Federation for Surgery and Other Therapies for Obesity (IFSO) Consensus on Clinical Practice in Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
Authors: Cohen, Ricardo V; Ponce, Jaime; Abu Dayyeh, Barham; Stier, Christine; Levinson, Randy; Salminen, Paulina; Prager, Gerhard
Publication year: 2026
Journal: Obesity Surgery
ISSN: 0960-8923
eISSN: 1708-0428
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11695-026-08518-3
Publication's open availability at the time of reporting: No Open Access
Publication channel's open availability : Partially Open Access publication channel
Web address : https://doi.org/10.1007/s11695-026-08518-3
Background
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is an endoscopic metabolic intervention that achieves clinically meaningful weight loss at short- and early mid-term follow-up. Considerable variation persists in patient selection, procedural technique, and post-procedure management. To harmonize practice and define priorities for future research, an international multidisciplinary consensus was developed under the International Federation for Surgery and Other Therapies for Obesity (IFSO).
MethodsA modified Delphi process was conducted among 23 international experts in metabolic bariatric surgery, bariatric endoscopy, endocrinology, and nutrition. Statements derived from a structured literature review were refined through three rounds of anonymous voting. Agreement was defined as ≥ 80% of votes within the 7–9 range on a 9-point Likert scale. Consensus strength was graded A (≥ 90%), B (80–89%), or C (70–79%).
ResultsTwenty-eight statements were finalized across three domains: (1) indications and patient selection (2), technical and procedural considerations, and (3) post-procedure management. Twenty-three statements reached grade A or A+, four grade B, and one grade C. Strong agreement supported multidisciplinary evaluation before ESG, standardized full-thickness suturing along the greater curvature, and selective use of adjunct pharmacotherapy in patients with suboptimal initial clinical response.
ConclusionsThis international consensus provides a framework for current best practices in ESG, supporting standardization of indications and techniques, safety, and integration within standard pathways for the treatment of obesity.