Download Gastric Emptying Study - Nova Scotia Health Authority

Patient & Family Guide
2015
Gastric Emptying
Study
www.nshealth.ca
Gastric Emptying Study
A gastric emptying study is done in the Nuclear
Medicine Department. You will be given a
radioisotope. Pictures will then be taken with a
gamma camera. The camera is positioned over
the area to be studied. You will have to stay
still for these pictures but you will not feel any
discomfort.
Why is this test
done?
This test is done to find
out how long it takes
for food to empty from
your stomach.
Stomach
Small
Bowel
Large
Bowel
Getting ready
It is very important
that you tell us if you:
›› May be pregnant.
›› Are breastfeeding.
›› Have had any recent nuclear medicine
studies.
›› Are allergic to eggs.
What to wear and bring
• Wear warm comfortable clothing without
buttons or zippers.
• Wear footwear that is easy to get on and off.
• Leave all jewelry that you can at home.
• Empty your pockets.
• Bring a warm sweater without buttons or
zippers in case it is cold.
What happens during the test?
You will be asked to eat a scrambled egg
sandwich which has a radioisotope added and
drink some water.
Then, EITHER
• A gamma camera will take a “one minute”
picture every hour for 3 hours. You must stay
still for each picture.
OR
• You will have pictures taken for 90 minutes as
the radioisotope empties from your stomach.
You must lie still for the whole 90 minutes.
Will the radiation hurt me?
No. The dosage of the radioisotope is so low that
it will not be harmful to you.
If you have any questions, please ask.
We are here to help you.
If you are unable to attend your
appointment, please leave a message at
902-473-1595 so another patient can be
booked in your time slot.
Looking for more health information?
Contact your local public library for books, videos, magazines, and other resources.
For more information go to http://library.novascotia.ca
Nova Scotia Health Authority promotes a smoke-free, vape-free, and scent-free environment.
Please do not use perfumed products. Thank you!
Nova Scotia Health Authority
www.nshealth.ca
Prepared by: Diagnostic Imaging ©
Designed by: Nova Scotia Health Authority, Central Zone Patient Education Team
Illustration by: LifeART Super Anatomy 1 Images, Copyright © 1994, TechPool Studios Corp. USA
Printed by: Dalhousie University Print Centre
The information in this brochure is for informational and educational purposes only.
The information is not intended to be and does not constitute healthcare or medical advice.
If you have any questions, please ask your healthcare provider.
WN85-0217 Updated December 2015
The information in this pamphlet is to be updated every 3 years or as needed.