Gastric Emptying Study

This is a medical test that measures how quickly food moves from the stomach into the small intestine. It’s often used to diagnose gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach takes too long to empty. The test involves eating a meal with a small amount of radioactive substance, and then using a special camera to track its movement through the digestive system. Nothing to eat or drink for 4 hours before the exam. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. You may continue your normal medications, which could be taken with a small amount of water or juice up to four hours before your study. Some medications are generally stopped for this test. This should be discussed with Dr. Suleman before the test. Drugs that affect gastric emptying, such as Reglan® (metoclopramide), Zelnorm® (tegaserod), erythromycin, and Motilium® (domperidone), and antispasmodics such as Bentyl®, Donnatal®, Levsin®, and Robinul® are usually stopped for three days before this test. Do not take any laxatives on the day before or any time during your study. This exam will take around 3-4 hours. You will be able to drive afterwards (If you can drive yourself).