What Is Gastric Electrical Stimulation?
Gastroparesis
A small medical device called a neurostimulator is implanted under the skin, usually in the lower abdominal region. Two insulated wires called leads are implanted in the stomach wall muscle and then connected to the neurostimulator. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
A small medical device called a neurostimulator is implanted under the skin, usually in the lower abdominal region. Two insulated wires called leads are implanted in the stomach wall muscle and then connected to the neurostimulator. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
The neurostimulator sends mild electrical pulses through the leads to stimulate the smooth muscles of the lower stomach. This may help to control the chronic nausea and vomiting caused by gastroparesis.
After the device is implanted, the doctor uses a handheld, external programmer to adjust the neurostimulator and customise the stimulation. Stimulation can be adjusted without surgery. The stimulation can be turned off by the doctor at any time if the person experiences any intolerable side effects.
The Enterra™ Therapy system for gastric electrical stimulation is authorised for use in treatment of chronic intractable (drug refractory) nausea and vomiting secondary to gastroparesis of diabetic or idiopathic etiology. The effectiveness of this device for this use has not been demonstrated.
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