Nuclear Gastro-Esophageal Reflux

Your physician has referred you to the Diagnostic Imaging Department at United Hospital Center for a Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Scan.

The lower end of the esophagus has a function of preventing reflux (backing up) of acid from the stomach into the esophagus. Persistent gastroesophageal reflux is common in adult patients with diaphragmatic hernias and in children with asthma, chronic lung disease, sleep apnea, and sudden death syndrome.

You should be fasting 4-6 hours before the procedure. A nasogastric tube should be inserted in young children.

After arriving in the Diagnostic Imaging Department you will be asked to drink orange juice that has been prepared with a small amount of radioactive material. Immediately after drinking the orange juice, the technologist will begin acquiring the images needed for this exam.

The radiologist will review the images acquired and decide whether you will need to return to the Diagnostic Imaging Department for delayed images. These images, if necessary, will usually be obtained within four (4) hours after drinking the orange juice.

LENGTH: Approximately 1 hour, if delayed images are not necessary.

If you are pregnant, or think you might be, tell your doctor and the technologist BEFORE your exam.