Gastroparesis is a chronic disorder in which the stomach empties more slowly than normal (delayed gastric emptying) in the absence of any type of mechanical obstruction. The most common symptoms are nausea and protracted vomiting. Other symptoms include abdominal bloating, and, in severe cases, malnutrition.
Gastroparesis most commonly occurs in people with type 1 diabetes. It can also occur in other situations such as after abdominal surgery or in association with anorexia nervosa and abdominal migraine. Some cases are idiopathic. Conservative treatment options include modification of dietary intake and medical therapy with antiemetics or prokinetics. Treatment options for chronic intractable (drug-refractory) symptoms include jejunostomy tube insertion for feeding, gastrostomy tube insertion for stomach decompression, and pyloroplasty.
Gastroelectrical stimulation is an option for treating chronic, intractable nausea and vomiting secondary to gastroparesis.