[Optimizing antrum planimetry for ultrasound determination of gastric emptying using emptying function reference lines].

UNLABELLED

Previous studies have shown high inter- and intraindividual variation coefficients (Vkinter; Vkintra) of the gastric emptying time t(end) determined by sonographical antrum planimetry.

PURPOSE

Are there new parameters reflecting the functional process of gastric emptying?

METHOD

Gastric emptying of 300 ml water was studied in 20 healthy volunteers by sonographical antrum planimetry. 10 volunteers were examined a second time on another day.

RESULTS

High variation coefficients Vkinter (42%) and Vkintra (31%) could be demonstrated. Moreover, a correlation of r = +0.922 between tend and the maximal percentual increase of the antral area was evident. This relation is introduced as the functional-emptying-line (FEL).

CONCLUSION

Using the functional aspects of FEL, gastric emptying can be studied sonographically under functional aspects.