Title : Epigastric Impedance measures gastric malfunction non-invasively. Time to revive it
Abstract:
The Epigastric Impedance Monitor (EIM) measures gastric emptying (GE) of liquids and gastric motility responses to liquid meals by monitoring bioimpedance when volunteers or patients drink a liquid meal. Its complete non-invasiveness, low cost and simplicity means tests can be done anywhere so it is potentially suitable for primary care clinics where most gastric malfunction presents. Considerable research was done years ago but the need for measuring gastric malfunction was not then understood, so it was never developed. Now a survey has found 26 publications that show EIM detected gastric delay whenever it was expected. More powerful motor responses were found in faster emptier volunteers and after prokinetic treatment. Abnormal motility patterns were found in diabetic neuropathy and functional dyspepsia. By detecting which dyspepsia patents have dysmotility the EIM directs treatment to prokinetics instead of antacids, so reducing consultations and wasted treatments. Then by monitoring efficacy the EIM helps the carer find the best compound and dose.
Now that the huge burden of gastric malfunction has been established, it is time to renew research into the potential for EI to help the millions who suffer from it and reduce that burden.
