MEDICAL PROCEDURES
Antro-duodenal Motility Study
What is an antro-duodenal motility study?
An antro-duodenal motility study is a study that evaluates the ability of the muscles of the stomach and the first portion of the small intestines (duodenum) to contract. Conditions in which there is abnormal contraction of the muscles of the stomach and the small intestines are referred to as motility disorders.
When is an antro-duodenal motility study used?
An antro-duodenal motility study is used to diagnose a motility disorder of the stomach, that is, a condition of abnormal function of the muscles of the stomach and/or small intestine. Such abnormal function usually is suspected when there are symptoms and signs of obstruction to the flow of food through the stomach and intestines. These symptoms usually are nausea, vomiting, and intestinal distention (enlargement). The obstruction is a direct result of the inability of the abnormally functioning muscles to propel food through the stomach and intestines. A common cause of a motility disorder of the stomach and intestines is diabetes mellitus.
How is an antro-duodenal motility study done?
For an antro-duodenal motility study, a thin tube (one-eighth inch in diameter) is passed through the nose, down the esophagus, through the stomach and into the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. Sensors in the tube measure the amount of pressure generated when the muscles of the stomach and intestine contract and squeeze tightly around the tube. The greater the contraction of the muscles, the greater the pressure sensed by the tube. All contractions are recorded by a computer for analysis. Contractions are recorded at rest for up to several hours and for one or two hours after a meal. Thus, a study may take up to six hours.
How are the results of an antro-duodenal motility study evaluated?
Normally, there are characteristic patterns of contraction of the stomach and duodenum during fasting periods and after meals. In patients with motility problems of the stomach and/or small intestine, the characteristic patterns are abnormal or completely absent. Such patients may be treated with drugs to stimulate contraction, such as metoclopramide (Reglan). Cisapride (Propulsid), however, has been removed from the market because of adverse side effects.
Are there any side effects to an antro-duodenal motility study?
There are no important side effects; however, the tube can become quite irritating after several hours, giving the patient a sore throat. Occasionally, the tube also causes nasal irritation. Within 24 hours after the tube is removed, the irritation disappears.
Are there any alternatives to an antro-duodenal motility study?
Other tests can help with the evaluation of motility disorders, including upper gastrointestinal x-rays, gastric emptying studies, and electrogastrograms, but no other test directly measures the ability of the stomach and intestinal muscles to contract like the antro-duodenal motility study.
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