cpt code for gastric emptying study
The CPT Code for Gastric Emptying Study: An In-Depth Guide
A gastric emptying study (GES) is a medical procedure that measures how quickly food leaves your stomach. It is used to diagnose gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach takes too long to empty. The CPT code for a GES is 91106.
Why is a Gastric Emptying Study Performed?
A GES may be performed to diagnose gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach takes too long to empty. Gastroparesis can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain. It can also lead to malnutrition and weight loss.
A GES can also be used to evaluate the results of surgery to treat gastroparesis. It can also be used to assess the risk of developing gastroparesis in people with diabetes or other conditions that can affect the stomach.
How is a Gastric Emptying Study Performed?
A GES is typically performed in an outpatient setting. You will be asked to eat a meal that contains a radioactive tracer. The tracer will be tracked as it moves through your stomach.
There are two main types of GES:
- Scintigraphy GES: This type of GES uses a gamma camera to track the tracer. A gamma camera is a device that detects radiation.
- Breath test GES: This type of GES uses a breath test to track the tracer. The tracer will be in the form of a capsule that you will swallow.
What are the Risks of a Gastric Emptying Study?
A GES is a safe procedure with few risks. The most common risk is radiation exposure. The amount of radiation exposure from a GES is small and is not considered to be harmful.
Other risks of a GES include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
How Can I 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 that contains caffeine or alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Bring a list of all medications you are taking.
What Happens After a Gastric Emptying Study?
After a GES, you will be able to go home. You may experience some nausea or vomiting. You should drink plenty of fluids to help flush the tracer out of your system.
The results of your GES will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor will review the results and discuss them with you.
Interesting Story Cases
Here are a few interesting story cases about GES:
- A 25-year-old woman was diagnosed with gastroparesis after a GES. She had been experiencing nausea, vomiting, and bloating for several months. After being treated with medication, her symptoms improved significantly.
- A 50-year-old man was diagnosed with gastroparesis after a GES. He had been experiencing abdominal pain, weight loss, and malnutrition. After undergoing surgery to treat the gastroparesis, his symptoms improved dramatically.
- A 30-year-old woman was diagnosed with gastroparesis after a GES. She had been experiencing nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain for several years. After being treated with a combination of medication and surgery, her symptoms improved significantly.
Conclusion
A GES is a safe and effective procedure that can help diagnose and treat gastroparesis. If you are experiencing symptoms of gastroparesis, talk to your doctor about whether a GES is right for you.
The CPT code for a GES is 91106.