cpt code gastric emptying study
CPT Code Gastric Emptying Study: Delving into Gastrointestinal Function Analysis
Introduction
Digestive health is paramount in maintaining overall well-being. Understanding the rate at which food leaves the stomach is crucial for diagnosing and managing gastrointestinal disorders. A gastric emptying study, utilizing CPT code 91104, provides valuable insights into this process.What is a Gastric Emptying Study?
A gastric emptying study measures the time it takes for food solids and liquids to leave the stomach. The patient consumes a radiolabeled meal and undergoes a series of X-rays or scans over several hours to track the movement of the radioactive material through the stomach and intestines.Indications
A gastric emptying study is commonly used to diagnose and monitor conditions that affect stomach function, including: * Gastroparesis: Delayed gastric emptying * Dumping syndrome: Rapid gastric emptying * Obstructive gastrointestinal disorders * Dyspepsia: Indigestion * Peptic ulcer diseasePreparation
Before the study, patients are instructed to: * Fast for 12 hours * Avoid smoking for 4 hours * Inform the doctor of any medications or medical conditionsProcedure
During the study: * The patient consumes a radiolabeled meal, usually a solid meal (eggs and toast) or a liquid meal (Ensure). * X-rays or scans are taken at regular intervals, typically 1-4 hours apart. * The images are analyzed to determine the percentage of food remaining in the stomach.Interpretation
The results are typically reported as the gastric emptying half-time (t1/2), which is the time it takes for half of the food to leave the stomach. Normal t1/2 values vary based on the meal consumed: * Solid meal: 60-120 minutes * Liquid meal: 90-150 minutes Delayed gastric emptying (gastroparesis) is diagnosed when t1/2 exceeds 120 minutes for a solid meal or 150 minutes for a liquid meal.Case Studies
* **Delayed Gastric Emptying:** Maria, a 35-year-old diabetic, experienced persistent nausea and vomiting. A gastric emptying study revealed delayed t1/2, confirming gastroparesis as the underlying cause. * **Rapid Gastric Emptying:** John, a 19-year-old athlete, reported abdominal discomfort and post-meal weakness. The study showed rapid t1/2, indicating dumping syndrome as the cause of his symptoms. * **Obstructive Gastrointestinal Disorder:** Tom, a 60-year-old man, had a history of pancreatitis. A gastric emptying study demonstrated significant food retention in the stomach, suggesting an obstruction in his small intestine.Complications
Gastric emptying studies are generally safe. However, some potential complications include: * Radiation exposure (small amount) * Injection site reactions * Contrast agent reactionsCPT Code 91104
The CPT code for a gastric emptying study is 91104, which includes: * Preparation and administration of a radiolabeled test meal * Acquisition and interpretation of images * Written report of the resultsImportance
Gastric emptying studies play a crucial role in: * Diagnosing and managing gastrointestinal disorders * Guiding treatment decisions * Monitoring treatment efficacy * Enhancing patient outcomesConclusion
A gastric emptying study (CPT code 91104) is a valuable diagnostic tool for assessing stomach function and identifying gastrointestinal conditions. By understanding the rate at which food leaves the stomach, healthcare providers can optimize patient care and improve digestive health.Related recommon
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