An 8-year review of barium studies in the diagnosis of gastroparesis

Aim

To determine the utility of barium studies for diagnosing gastroparesis in patients with nausea, vomiting, or other related symptoms.

Materials and methods

Radiology files revealed gastroparesis without gastric outlet obstruction on upper gastrointestinal tract barium studies in 50 patients with nausea, vomiting, and other related symptoms. Original reports and images were reviewed to determine whether gastric peristalsis was decreased/absent and to investigate gastric dilatation, fluid or debris, and delayed emptying of barium. Twenty patients (40%) had nuclear gastric emptying studies. Medical records were reviewed to determine the presentation, treatment, and course. The diagnosis of gastroparesis was considered accurate if patients with gastroparesis on barium studies responded to treatment.

Results

Forty-six patients (92%) had predisposing factors for gastroparesis, including narcotics and diabetes. Forty-five patients (90%) presented with nausea or vomiting, and 40 patients (80%) had one or more other symptoms, including bloating, early satiety, postprandial fullness, and abdominal pain. Barium studies revealed decreased gastric peristalsis in 46 (92%) of the 50 patients and absent peristalsis in four (8%); 46 patients (92%) had additional findings, including gastric dilatation in 30 (60%), delayed emptying of barium in 27 (54%), debris in 28 (56%; bezoars in three), and retained fluid in 13 (26%). Thirteen (65%) of 20 patients with nuclear gastric emptying studies had delayed emptying of solids and seven (35%) had normal emptying. Thirty-five (83%) of 42 patients treated for gastroparesis had symptomatic improvement versus two (25%) of eight patients not treated.

Conclusion

Patients with nausea, vomiting, or other related symptoms who have gastroparesis without gastric outlet obstruction on barium studies can be treated for this condition on the basis of the clinical and radiographic findings.