|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
Gastric Emptying |
|
|
A gastric emptying study is performed to evaluate the function of the stomach by measuring how quickly food empties from the stomach. This study is performed when patients have nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea after eating.
Patient Preparation
It is recommended that you schedule this exam in the morning, due to diet restrictions Do not eat anything 8 hours prior to your exam. Continue taking prescribed medications, unless directed otherwise. If you need to take medications the morning of your exam, you may do so with a very small sip of water. Wear comfortable clothes without metal fasteners, including zippers, buttons and snaps. Arrive 15 minutes early to complete registration. Bring with you: Your appointment form; insurance information, including your insurance card; valid photo i.d. Please let us know about any of the following: Pregnancy, known or possible; if you are a nursing mother; allergies or sensitivities to any substances or drugs
What happens during the exam
For this exam, a nuclear medicine technologist will give you a meal of scrambled eggs to eat with a small amount of radioactive tracer added to it. If you have an allergy to eggs, you will be given oatmeal instead.
Every 15 minutes you will be asked to stand in front of a special camera so your stomach can be imaged, which takes one minute. The images will be taken during a one hour and 45 minute period. The technologist will be in the room with you for the entire exam.
After your exam
Unless directed otherwise, you may drive, resume your normal diet, exercise and take all prescribed medications. The tracer remains in your body for a short time and is cleared through natural bodily functions. Drinking plenty of fluids will help flush it through your body more quickly.
Your images will be interpreted by a board-certified radiologist specializing in body imaging. The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the results.
Gastric emptying exams are available at: Coon Rapids and Southdale |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
