What are the methods for measuring gastric residual volume?
Nov 09, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xuemei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, methods for measuring gastric residual volume include nasogastric tube aspiration, ultrasonography, gastric motility monitors, X-ray barium contrast imaging, and endoscopic examination. In addition, other methods for assessing gastric residual volume include esophageal sphincter pressure monitoring and sensory volumetry. Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention when experiencing discomfort and to undergo standardized treatment under the guidance of a physician, which can facilitate recovery.
Generally, methods for measuring gastric residual volume include gastric tube aspiration, ultrasound measurement, gastric motility monitors, X-ray barium contrast imaging, and endoscopic observation. The details are as follows:
1. Gastric Tube Aspiration
This method involves inserting a thin, long gastric tube through the patient's mouth or nasal cavity to aspirate fluid from the stomach, allowing calculation of the mass of undigested food and thus determining the gastric residual volume. This technique is simple to perform and provides rapid, accurate results; however, insertion of the gastric tube may cause discomfort to the patient.
2. Ultrasound Measurement
Patients can undergo ultrasound measurement to assess gastric residual volume. Ultrasound waves penetrate the stomach wall and measure the depth and surface area of intragastric fluid, enabling estimation of residual volume. This method is non-invasive, easy to perform, and highly reproducible, but requires an experienced physician for accurate operation.
3. Gastric Motility Monitor
A gastric motility monitor allows real-time monitoring of gastric residual volume. Using sensors, this device measures intragastric pressure and fluid flow dynamics to track changes in gastric residual volume. This method enables continuous monitoring and timely detection of abnormalities.
4. X-ray Barium Contrast Imaging
In this method, barium sulfate is used as a contrast agent. After a certain period following ingestion, X-ray imaging is performed to observe the location of ingested material within the stomach. Currently, this is considered a relatively accurate and reliable method for assessing gastric residual volume. However, it requires a longer examination time and cannot be frequently used due to radiation exposure concerns.
5. Endoscopic Observation
Endoscopic observation involves using a gastroscope to visually assess gastric residual volume. This method allows detection of conditions such as fluid retention, gastric wall edema, and mucosal erosion, which may result from excessive gastric residuals. By observing these findings, physicians can estimate the amount of gastric residue and determine whether the patient has impaired gastric emptying or reduced gastric motility. This approach provides direct visualization of gastric contents, but the use of a gastroscope may cause patient discomfort.
In addition, other methods for measuring gastric residual volume include lower esophageal sphincter pressure monitoring and sensory volumetry. Patients experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention promptly and receive standardized treatment under a physician’s guidance to promote recovery.
