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This information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition.
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U-M Health SystemThis information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition.
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GI Motility Study

What does a GI Motility Study involve?
How do I prepare for the test?
What if I am a diabetic?

What does a GI Motility Study involve?

Your doctor has requested a test in order to examine the contraction of your stomach and upper small intestinal muscles. This test will involve the swallowing of a small tube which will not interfere with your breathing. This tube will monitor the of your stomach and small intestine. After monitoring the motility of your stomach and small intestine for a few hours, a test meal and/or medication will be administered to determine their effects on the upper gastrointestinal tract.

How do I prepare for the test?

The test will take approximately 6 to 8 hours to perform. To reduce the risk of complications, the stomach must be empty. Therefore, please do not eat or drink after 10 p.m. the night before the test. You should not smoke and comfortable clothes should be worn. Avoid eating a heavy carbohydrate meal such as lasagna, spaghetti, rice, or potatoes, after 7 p.m. the night before the test.

What if I am a Diabetic?

If you have diabetes, please take one-half of your usual Lente (LEN-tay) or NPH insulin dose and you should NOT take any REGULAR insulin on the morning of your test. The day of the test, do not take ANY medication, including over-the-counter medication, unless your physician or nurse has advised you otherwise. The test will be performed in the Gastroenterology Physiology and Manometry Laboratory in the Medical Procedures Unit in University Hospital on Level 2B353.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call the GI Physiology Lab in the Medical Procedures Unit at (734) 936-9250.

U-M Health System Related Sites:
Department of Internal Medicine Division of Gastroenterology

Other Related Web Sites:
National Institute of Digestive Diseases
Your Digestive System and How it Works
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