Focused Ultrasound Stimulation for Gastroparesis

This trial tests a new noninvasive treatment using focused ultrasound to help people with gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. Researchers aim to determine if Gastric Focused Ultrasound Stimulation can alter stomach activity and improve symptoms after eating. Participants will attend two visits: one with the actual treatment and one with a sham version, to compare results. Suitable candidates have gastroparesis confirmed by tests and can drink two bottles of the nutritional drinks used in the study. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that could lead to new treatment options for gastroparesis.

Research has shown that gastric electrical stimulation (GES), a technology similar to gastric focused ultrasound stimulation, is generally safe for treating gastroparesis. Studies indicate that GES can reduce symptoms without causing major side effects. In one study, patients who received GES experienced no serious complications after the procedure. Another study confirmed that GES is safe and effective for long-term use in patients with severe gastroparesis.

Researchers are excited about Gastric Focused Ultrasound Stimulation for gastroparesis because it offers a non-invasive alternative to current treatments. Unlike standard options like dietary changes, medications to stimulate stomach muscles, or even surgical interventions, this technique uses focused ultrasound energy to stimulate the stomach externally. The potential for reduced side effects and quicker recovery times makes this approach particularly promising. Additionally, it targets the stomach directly without the need for invasive procedures, which could make it a more appealing option for patients seeking less disruptive treatments.

Research has shown that focused ultrasound on the stomach is being studied as a treatment for gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach struggles to empty food. In this trial, participants will receive either active gastric focused ultrasound stimulation or a sham procedure. Although data on using ultrasound for this purpose remains limited, similar treatments like gastric electrical stimulation (GES) have shown promising results. Specifically, studies have found that GES can reduce vomiting by up to 62% and improve symptoms like nausea and stomach pain. The researchers aim to determine if focused ultrasound might work similarly by targeting the stomach to help manage symptoms and improve gastric emptying. This noninvasive method is still in the early stages but could potentially offer relief for people with gastroparesis.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰