gastric emptying study cpt
Gastric Emptying Study CPT: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients
A gastric emptying study is a diagnostic test to understand how quickly your stomach empties food into your small intestine. This test can help your doctor find out whether your stomach is emptying too slowly or too quickly, which can be linked to other health conditions.
How is a Gastric Emptying Study Performed?
Before the test, you will be asked to fast for 8 to 12 hours. During the procedure, you will swallow a small amount of radioactive liquid or a capsule containing a radioactive marker. You will then lie down under a special camera that will track the movement of the marker through your stomach and small intestine.
The procedure takes about 4 to 5 hours. You will be able to go home after the test but should avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours.
Why is a Gastric Emptying Study Performed?
A gastric emptying study can help your doctor diagnose several conditions, including:
- Gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach does not empty food quickly enough
- Dumping syndrome, a condition in which food moves too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), a condition in which there is an excessive amount of bacteria in the small intestine
- Obstruction of the small intestine
The Importance of a Gastric Emptying Study
A gastric emptying study is necessary because it can help your doctor determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Gastroparesis can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain. Dumping syndrome can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and lightheadedness. SIBO can cause symptoms such as gas, bloating, and abdominal pain.
If you are experiencing symptoms of gastroparesis, dumping syndrome, or SIBO, your doctor may recommend a gastric emptying study to help diagnose the condition and determine the best treatment.
Risks of a Gastric Emptying Study
A gastric emptying study is a relatively safe procedure. However, there are some risks associated with the procedure, including:
- Radiation exposure: The radioactive marker used in the test exposes you to a small amount of radiation. The amount of radiation is considered safe, but it is important to discuss the risks with your doctor before the test.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the radioactive marker. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms during the test, tell your doctor immediately.
Preparing for a Gastric Emptying Study
To prepare for a gastric emptying study, you will need to fast for 8 to 12 hours before the test. You should also avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine for 24 hours before the test.
On the day of the test, you should wear comfortable clothing and bring a book or something else to do during the procedure.
During a Gastric Emptying Study
During the gastric emptying study, you will lie down under a special camera. The camera will track the movement of the radioactive marker through your stomach and small intestine.
The procedure takes about 4 to 5 hours. You will be able to go home after the test but should avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours.
Results of a Gastric Emptying Study
The results of a gastric emptying study will show how quickly your stomach empties food into your small intestine. The results will help your doctor determine whether your stomach is emptying too slowly or too quickly.
If your stomach is emptying too slowly, your doctor may recommend medication or surgery to help improve gastric emptying.
If your stomach is emptying too quickly, your doctor may recommend a change in diet or medication to help slow down gastric emptying.
Conclusion
A gastric emptying study is a valuable tool for diagnosing conditions that affect gastric emptying. The test is relatively safe and can help your doctor determine the best treatment for your condition.
If you are experiencing symptoms of gastroparesis, dumping syndrome, or SIBO, your doctor may recommend a gastric emptying study to help diagnose the condition and determine the best treatment.