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Our GI Physiology Lab is a specialized center for evaluating and diagnosing functional gastrointestinal disorders and motility issues. Using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including breath tests, we assess the function and coordination of the digestive tract, providing accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans.
Why GI Physiology Testing Matters
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or acid reflux often stem from underlying motility or functional issues. GI physiology testing helps identify the root cause of these symptoms, even when standard imaging or endoscopy results appear normal.
GI Physiology Services
1. Esophageal Function Tests
High-Resolution Manometry (HRM)
-Evaluates the pressure and movement in the esophagus during swallowing.
– Diagnoses conditions such as achalasia, esophageal spasm, or weak lower esophageal sphincter
24-Hour pH Monitoring
– Measures acid exposure in the esophagus to assess for GERD.
– Combined impedance-pH monitoring to evaluate acid and non-acid reflux.
2. Gastric and Intestinal Motility Tests
Gastric Emptying Scintigraphy
– Assesses how quickly food leaves the stomach, diagnosing gastroparesis or rapid gastric emptying.
3. Anorectal Function Tests
Anorectal Manometry
Measures the strength and coordination of the muscles involved in bowel movements
Diagnoses conditions like chronic constipation, fecal incontinence, or pelvic floor dysfunction
Balloon Expulsion Test
Assesses the ability to pass a simulated stool to diagnose defecatory disorders
4. Small Intestinal and Colonic Transit Studies
Colonic Transit Testing
– Tracks how long it takes for food to move through the colon.
– Useful for diagnosing conditions such as slow-transit constipation.
Breath Tests
Breath tests are non-invasive diagnostic tools used to identify specific gastrointestinal conditions related to bacterial overgrowth, carbohydrate malabsorption, or infection.
Types of Breath Tests
1. Hydrogen and Methane Breath Tests
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
– Measures hydrogen and methane levels after consuming a sugar solution (e.g., glucose or lactulose).
– Diagnoses bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, which can cause bloating, diarrhea, and malabsorption.
Lactose Intolerance
– Evaluates the body’s ability to digest lactose, identifying intolerance.
Fructose Intolerance
– Detects malabsorption of fructose, which can lead to bloating, gas, and abdominal pain.
2. Urea Breath Test
Helicobacter pylori infection, a common cause of gastritis and peptic ulcers.
– Simple, non-invasive, and highly accurate.
How GI Physiology Testing and Breath Tests Help
- Accurate Diagnosis
– Identifies functional and motility disorders often missed by imaging or endoscopy.
- Personalized Care
– Results guide tailored treatment plans, including dietary adjustments, medications, or advanced therapies.
- Non-Invasive Options
– Breath tests offer convenient, patient-friendly diagnostic methods.
