Gastroparesis is a condition in which the stomach doesn't empty properly. Says UCLA gastroenterologist Mark Ovsiowitz, MD, "For most people, food empties from the stomach within two to four hours after eating. But for those with gastroparesis, the stomach doesn’t empty properly, which may cause severe nausea, vomiting and other problems. It’s very important to conduct a diagnostic evaluation in order to rule out possible causes of a person's symptoms." He explains that once a diagnosis of gastroparesis is confirmed, people usually begin with nonsurgical interventions, such as reducing dietary fat and fiber, eating smaller, frequent meals or taking a prescription medication to improve motility and aid stomach emptying.
For people who do not respond well to dietary changes or medication therapy, an implanted neurostimulator may be the best option. "While the neurostimulator does not cure gastroparesis, some studies have demonstrated that the device effectively reduces symptoms in approximately 80% of people," says UCLA surgeon Darryl Hiyama, MD.
