gastric emptying study cpt
Gastric Emptying Study CPT: A Comprehensive Guide
A gastric emptying study (GES) is a medical test that measures how quickly your stomach empties food. It is used to diagnose conditions that affect the stomachs ability to empty, such as gastroparesis.
What is a Gastric Emptying Study?
A GES is a non-invasive test that is performed in a hospital or clinic. You will be given a meal that contains a radioactive tracer. The tracer will be mixed with food and ingested orally.
After you eat the meal, you will lie down on a table and a gamma camera will be placed over your abdomen. The gamma camera will take pictures of your stomach and track the movement of the tracer.
What are the Benefits of a Gastric Emptying Study?
A GES can help diagnose a variety of conditions that affect the stomachs ability to empty, including:
- Gastroparesis - Other causes of delayed gastric emptying due to diabetes and Parkinsons disease - Pyloric stenosis - Intestinal obstructionWhat are the Risks of a Gastric Emptying Study?
A GES is a safe test, but there are some potential risks, including:
- Radiation exposure. The amount of radiation exposure from a GES is very small, but it is still important to be aware of the risks. - Nausea and vomiting. Some people may experience nausea and vomiting during or after a GES. - Allergic reaction. Some people may be allergic to the radioactive tracer used in a GES.How to Prepare for a Gastric Emptying Study
To prepare for a GES, you will need to:
- Fast for 8 hours before the test. - Avoid eating or drinking anything except water for 8 hours before the test. - Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. - Inform your doctor of any allergies you have. Especially, some allergies to the ingredients and components of the meal you are about to take. Allergies to the radioactive tracer must be reported to the doctor.What to Expect During a Gastric Emptying Study
When you arrive for your GES, you will be asked to change into a gown. You will then be given a meal that contains a radioactive tracer. The tracer will be mixed with food and ingested orally.
After you eat the meal, you will lie down on a table and a gamma camera will be placed over your abdomen. The gamma camera will take pictures of your stomach and track the movement of the tracer.
The test usually takes about 4 hours to complete.
What are the Results of a Gastric Emptying Study?
The results of a GES will be interpreted by a doctor. The doctor will look for any abnormalities in the way your stomach empties food. The doctor can also recommend the best treatment. The treatment options for gastroparesis, for example, include medications, dietary changes, and surgery.
Additional Information
Here are some additional things you should know about GES:
- The cost of a GES varies depending on your insurance coverage. - The test is not available at all hospitals and clinics. - A GES is not typically used to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).Conclusion
A GES is a valuable test that can help diagnose a variety of conditions that affect the stomachs ability to empty. If you are experiencing symptoms of gastroparesis or another condition that affects the stomachs ability to empty, talk to your doctor about whether a GES is right for you.
CPT code for gastric emptying study: 76856