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| Definition: |
Emptying of the stomach content for analysis or removing of irritating elements such as poisons.
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| Alternative Names: |
Gastric lavage; Stomach pumping
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| How the test is performed: |
A tube is placed via the nose or mouth, down the esophagus, and into the stomach. Sometimes a topical anesthetic may be applied to minimize irritation and gagging as the tube is being placed. After placement, stomach contents are removed (using suction) either immediately or after irrigating water through the tube.
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| How to prepare for the test: |
When gastric suction is performed in an emergent setting of an ingested overdose or poison, or in the evaluation of the vomiting of blood no preparation is needed. When it is done for the analysis of gastric acid, your physician may require you to fast overnight or stop certain medications.
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| How the test will feel: |
You may feel a gagging sensation as the tube is passed.
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| Why the test is performed: |
This test may be performed for several different reasons, such as:
- To remove poisons, toxic substances, or overdosed medications from the stomach
- To irrigate and clean the stomach prior to performing an upper endoscopy (EGD) in someone who has been vomiting blood
- To collect stomach acid contents for further analysis
- To provide relief and decompression in someone with intestinal obstruction
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| What the risks are: |
There is a very small risk of the tube being accidentally placed into the airway (or lungs). There is also a small risk of aspirating gastric contents, perforation, and minor bleeding.
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Review Date: 6/6/2001
Reviewed By: Janak Shah, M.D., Department of Gastroenterology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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