How is a gastric emptying study done?
Gastric emptying studies are medical procedures used to evaluate the rate at which food leaves the stomach and enters the small intestine. This test is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions such as gastroparesis, a disorder that slows down the movement of food through the digestive tract. If you’re scheduled for a gastric emptying study, understanding how it’s done can help alleviate any anxiety you may feel about the procedure. Here’s a detailed explanation of the process.
Preparation for the Gastric Emptying Study
Before the study, your doctor will provide you with specific instructions to follow. These may include avoiding certain foods and drinks, fasting for a certain period, and possibly taking medication. It’s crucial to adhere to these instructions to ensure accurate results. The day before the test, you may be asked to consume a liquid meal that contains a radioactive tracer. This tracer is used to track the movement of food through your digestive system.
The Day of the Gastric Emptying Study
On the day of the test, you’ll arrive at the hospital or clinic where the study will be performed. You’ll be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie down on a table. The technician will then apply a small amount of radioactive tracer to your skin or insert a small, flexible tube through your nose and into your stomach. This tube is used to measure the amount of tracer in your stomach.
During the Gastric Emptying Study
Once the tracer is in place, you’ll be asked to eat a meal that contains the radioactive tracer. The meal may be a liquid or a soft food, depending on the type of study you’re undergoing. As you eat, the technician will use a gamma camera to take pictures of your stomach and intestines. These images will help determine how quickly the food is leaving your stomach.
Monitoring the Gastric Emptying Process
Throughout the study, you may be asked to perform certain activities, such as walking or lying down, to simulate different conditions. This helps the technician observe how your stomach responds to different movements. The study may take several hours, depending on the type of test and the specific protocol used by your healthcare provider.
Post-Study Care
After the study, you’ll be able to return to your normal activities. The radioactive tracer used in the study is safe and will be eliminated from your body through urine and feces. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids to help with this process. Your doctor will review the results of the study and discuss them with you.
Conclusion
Understanding how a gastric emptying study is done can help you feel more prepared and at ease during the procedure. By following your doctor’s instructions and adhering to the guidelines provided, you can ensure accurate results and a smooth experience. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
