Gastric Emptying Study - Purpose, Procedure, Results Interpretation, Normal Values and more

A Gastric Emptying Study is a diagnostic test used to measure how efficiently food or liquid moves from the stomach into the small intestine. This test is crucial for diagnosing various gastrointestinal disorders that can cause symptoms like bloating, nausea, vomiting, and discomfort after eating. It is primarily used to evaluate conditions like gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and other disorders that affect the digestive system.

What is a Gastric Emptying Study?

A Gastric Emptying Study (GES) is a type of imaging test that assesses the movement of food from the stomach into the small intestine. This test is most commonly performed by using a small amount of radioactive material mixed into food or liquid that a patient consumes. A special camera, known as a gamma camera, is used to capture images of the stomach over time to track how the food or liquid moves through the stomach and enters the small intestine.

The purpose of this test is to evaluate how quickly the stomach empties its contents, which is essential for diagnosing a variety of digestive issues. Abnormalities in gastric emptying can cause symptoms such as early satiety, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain.

Why is the Gastric Emptying Study Important?

The Gastric Emptying Study is important for several reasons:

• Diagnosis of Gastroparesis: One of the primary conditions assessed by the Gastric Emptying Study is gastroparesis, a disorder where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. This can cause significant discomfort and affect a patient’s nutritional intake.
• Assessment of Gastric Motility: The study helps determine if the stomach is functioning normally or if it has motility issues that slow down the process of digestion.
• Identification of Obstructions or Blockages: The test can also identify whether there are any blockages, narrowing, or mechanical issues affecting the normal movement of food through the stomach.
• Evaluation of Symptoms: For patients experiencing unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms such as chronic bloating, nausea, and fullness after eating, the Gastric Emptying Study provides objective data to guide treatment.

Common Uses of the Gastric Emptying Study

The Gastric Emptying Study is used in a variety of clinical situations, including:

• Gastroparesis Diagnosis: This is the most common use of the Gastric Emptying Study. Gastroparesis is a condition in which the stomach cannot empty properly due to nerve damage or other issues, leading to symptoms like bloating, nausea, and delayed digestion.
• Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): In some cases of GERD, the Gastric Emptying Study may be used to assess whether delayed gastric emptying contributes to acid reflux, worsening the symptoms of GERD.
• Post-Surgical Monitoring: Patients who have had surgeries like gastric bypass or other gastrointestinal surgeries may need a Gastric Emptying Study to ensure that the digestive system is functioning normally.
• Chronic Nausea and Vomiting: In patients who have chronic nausea and vomiting without a clear cause, this study helps determine if a delayed gastric emptying process is to blame.
• Evaluation of Diabetic Gastric Dysfunction: People with diabetes, especially those with long-standing or poorly controlled diabetes, are at risk for diabetic gastroparesis. This test is used to determine the extent of any gastric emptying issues.

How to Prepare for the Gastric Emptying Study

Proper preparation for the Gastric Emptying Study is essential to ensure the most accurate results. Here’s what you need to know:

• Fasting: You will need to fast for 6 to 12 hours before the test. This ensures that your stomach is empty and provides clear images during the test. Fasting usually means no food or drinks, including water.
• Medications: Certain medications can affect the results of the test, so it’s important to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking. For example, medications that alter gastric motility or acid production, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antacids, or narcotics, may need to be adjusted or paused before the test.
• Clothing: It is recommended that you wear loose-fitting clothes, as you may need to lie on your back or side during the scan. Avoid wearing any metal items such as jewelry or belts, as they can interfere with the imaging process.
• Radiation Exposure: While the radiation used in the test is minimal, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, inform your doctor. The test is typically avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids in the days leading up to the test, but avoid drinking anything after the fasting period begins.

How is the Gastric Emptying Study Performed?

The Gastric Emptying Study is typically performed in a radiology or nuclear medicine department and involves the following steps:

1. Preparation: The patient will be asked to fast for a specific period before the test. A nurse or technologist will prepare the patient for the procedure by explaining the process and addressing any concerns.
2. Consumption of Radioactive Food: The patient will consume a meal that contains a small amount of radioactive material, usually mixed into a food item such as scrambled eggs, oatmeal, or a drink. This allows the test to track the movement of food from the stomach into the small intestine.
3. Imaging: After eating the radioactive meal, the patient will lie down on a table, and a gamma camera will capture images of the stomach over a period of time. The camera tracks the food as it moves through the stomach. This may involve several scans taken over 1 to 2 hours.
4. Post-Test Observation: After the test, the patient can typically resume their normal activities. There are no long-term side effects, although some patients may be asked to drink extra fluids to help flush the radioactive material from their body.

Test Results Interpretation

The results of the Gastric Emptying Study are analyzed based on how quickly the food or liquid moves from the stomach into the small intestine. The results will typically be reported as a percentage of food that empties from the stomach over specific time intervals. Here’s what the results generally mean:

• Normal Gastric Emptying: In a normal, healthy person, the stomach empties approximately 50% of its contents in about 90 minutes and nearly all of it within 2 to 3 hours.
• Delayed Gastric Emptying (Gastroparesis): If the food takes longer than expected to move from the stomach into the small intestine, it can indicate gastroparesis or other motility disorders. Gastroparesis is usually diagnosed if more than 60% of the meal remains in the stomach after 2 hours.
• Rapid Gastric Emptying: In some cases, the test may show that food leaves the stomach too quickly. This could indicate an issue with gastric motility and may be related to conditions such as Dumping Syndrome, which is common after certain types of weight loss surgery.

Risks and Complications

The Gastric Emptying Study is generally considered a safe procedure with minimal risks. However, some potential risks include:

• Radiation Exposure: While the amount of radiation used in the test is minimal, there is always a small risk associated with any procedure that uses radioactive material.
• Discomfort: Some patients may feel mild discomfort or nausea after ingesting the radioactive food. However, this is usually brief and resolves quickly.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some patients may have an allergic reaction to the food or the radioactive material.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About the Gastric Emptying Study

1. What is the purpose of a Gastric Emptying Study?

The Gastric Emptying Study is used to evaluate how quickly food leaves the stomach and enters the small intestine. It is primarily used to diagnose conditions like gastroparesis, chronic nausea, vomiting, bloating, and GERD.

2. How long does a Gastric Emptying Study take?

The Gastric Emptying Study usually takes about 2 to 4 hours. The patient consumes a meal with radioactive material, and images are taken over the course of 1 to 2 hours to track how the stomach empties.

3. Do I need to do anything special to prepare for the test?

Yes, you will need to fast for 6 to 12 hours before the test. You should also inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be paused before the test.

4. Is the test painful?

The Gastric Emptying Study is not painful. The most discomfort you may experience is mild nausea after ingesting the radioactive meal, but this is usually temporary.

5. Is there any radiation involved in the test?

Yes, the test involves a small amount of radiation, but the exposure is minimal and considered safe for most people. Pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers should inform their doctor beforehand.

6. What can the results of the Gastric Emptying Study show?

The results can show whether your stomach is emptying normally, too slowly (gastroparesis), or too quickly. Abnormal results can help diagnose digestive disorders.

7. How soon will I get the results of the Gastric Emptying Study?

Results are typically available within a few days. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you and recommend a course of action based on the results.

8. Are there any risks associated with the Gastric Emptying Study?

The test carries minimal risks, primarily related to radiation exposure, but the amount of radiation used is very low. Some discomfort or nausea after the test may occur, but these symptoms usually resolve quickly.

9. Can I eat normally after the Gastric Emptying Study?

Yes, after the test, you can typically resume your normal activities and diet, unless your doctor advises otherwise based on your test results.

10. What if my results are abnormal?

If your test results show delayed gastric emptying, your doctor will discuss further diagnostic steps and treatment options. Treatment may include dietary changes, medications, or, in some cases, procedures to address the underlying condition.

Conclusion

The Gastric Emptying Study is a valuable diagnostic tool for assessing stomach motility and diagnosing conditions like gastroparesis, GERD, and chronic nausea. This non-invasive procedure provides essential information about how the stomach processes food, helping doctors determine the best course of treatment for patients experiencing digestive symptoms. With proper preparation and a clear understanding of the test, patients can feel confident and informed when undergoing this procedure. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to determine if this test is appropriate for your condition.