What is a gastric emptying disorder and how does it develop?
In a gastric emptying disorder (also known as gastroparesis or gastric paralysis), the stomach does not transport food to the intestine behind it in time. Those affected often report nausea and a feeling of fullness after eating. In extreme cases, regular vomiting occurs with inadequate nutrition and weight loss.
The most common cause of gastric emptying disorders isdiabetes mellitus. Injury to the stomach nerves (vagus) due to a previous operation can also trigger the clinical picture. In many patients, however, the cause remains unclear (so-called idiopathic gastroparesis).
How can the diagnosis be confirmed?
The USZ offers a range of examinations to determine whether you are suffering from a gastric emptying disorder. The first step is always a detailed discussion about the type, intensity and duration of the symptoms, as well as previous operations and medication taken to date.
The diagnosis is then usually supplemented by a gastroscopy and X-ray contrast imaging. Further examinations include gastric emptying measurement (breath test or scintigraphy), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI ) and special pressure measurements at the stomach pouch (EndoFlip).
Treatment of gastroparesis
Close interdisciplinary / interprofessional cooperation between gastroenterology, surgery and nutritional counseling is crucial for successful treatment.
Gastric paralysis is usually initially treated conservatively (i.e. not surgically). In addition to certain types of diet, there are a number of medications available that can improve gastric emptying.
If this therapy is unsuccessful, the minimally invasive implantation of a gastric pacemaker (Enterra II) can help in some cases. A particular advantage over other surgical techniques is that the normal anatomy of the gastrointestinal tract is preserved and the procedure is generally reversible.
Provided the indication is correct, around 80% of pacemaker patients report a significant improvement in symptoms.
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