Gastrointestinal scintigraphy for motility disorders
What is it?
The scintigraphic analysis of the esophageal-gastro-duodenal transit scintigraphytransit is a diagnostic method that uses a tasteless and odorless substance, weakly radioactive, used to mark a small amount of liquid or solid food. The radiation emitted by the radiolabeled meal is visualized by a special apparatus, called gamma camera; the images obtained allow to investigate the disorders of the transit of the meal through the first digestive tract.
The scintigraphic study of the esophageal-gastro-duodenal transit scintigraphy is recommended in cases of difficulty in swallowing, difficulty in digestion, persistent diarrhea. From the analysis of the images are obtained functional parameters useful to the gastroenterologist to provide a correct therapy.
When is this exam indicated?
The scintigraphic study of the esophageal-gastro-duodenal transit scintigraphy is recommended in cases of difficulty in swallowing, difficulty in digestion, persistent diarrhea. Functional parameters useful to the gastroenterologist to provide a correct therapy, are obtained based the analysis of the images.
- Esophageal achalasia
- suspected gastroparesis
How is it performed?
The patient is required to fast for at least 6 hours. A little liquid (water) or solid (jam, toast, scrambled egg) meal to which a weakly radioactive substance is added is administered. After ingestion of the meal, the patient is asked to stand near the gamma chamber, which consists of two large plates that detect radioactivity. The patient must remain motionless for a time varying from a few seconds to one minute. Depending on the area to be investigated, several poses will be performed in sequence over time, usually every 30' for a total session lasting up to 4 hours.
Contraindications
The only contraindication is pregnancy. Patients with egg allergy can use other foods (e.g. cheese).
Where do we treat it?
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