Body surface gastric mapping in patients with para-oesophageal hernias
This study is looking at how the stomach works after surgery for a condition called a para-oesophageal hernia. This happens when part of the stomach moves up into the chest. Researchers use a new, gentle method called ‘Body Surface Gastric Mapping’ (BSGM). This involves placing special sensors on your skin over your stomach to record its electrical activity and movements. The aim is to see if this method can help explain why some people still have stomach problems after surgery, and how their stomach function might be affected. This could lead to a better understanding and potentially improved ways to help people in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine your food pipe (oesophagus) goes through a small opening in the muscle that helps you breathe (diaphragm) to reach your stomach. A para-oesophageal hernia happens when part of your stomach pushes up through this opening into your chest. This can cause tummy troubles, and surgery is often needed to fix it. Even after surgery, some people still experience digestive symptoms, and doctors aren't always sure why.
This study wants to learn more about how the stomach works in people who have had this type of hernia repair, especially when a large part of the stomach was in the chest (called a 'giant' para-oesophageal hernia). We know that the stomach has electrical activity that helps it move food through. Currently, measuring this activity often involves invasive tests. This study is testing a new, gentler way to do this using a device called Gastric Alimetry™.
Gastric Alimetry™ involves placing special sensors, like sticky patches, on the skin over your stomach. These sensors measure the electrical signals from your stomach, giving researchers an idea of how it is moving. By using this technology, the study hopes to find out if there's a link between the electrical activity of the stomach and the digestive symptoms people experience after hernia surgery. This information could hopefully help doctors understand these symptoms better in the future and find improved ways to help people feel better.
Key takeaways
- It's about understanding stomach function after hernia surgery.
- A new, gentle skin patch device measures stomach activity.
- Aims to explain why people get tummy problems after certain hernia operations.
- No direct benefit for you, but could help others in the future.
- The device is safe, with minor discomfort possible from sticky patches.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over. You need to be planning to have, or have recently had, specific surgery called an elective para-oesophageal hernia repair. This particular type of hernia means that more than half of your stomach has moved up into your chest.
There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you weigh too much (your BMI is over 35), you've had similar surgery before, or if you have certain serious medical conditions like cancer of the food pipe or stomach. If you have very sensitive skin or allergies to sticky patches or lotions, you might also not be suitable. The study also cannot include people who need emergency hernia surgery.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you over 18 years old?
- Are you having surgery for a para-oesophageal hernia where more than half your stomach is in your chest?
- Do you have a BMI less than 35?
- Have you *not* had similar surgery before?
- Do you *not* have severe skin allergies to sticky patches?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, it won't involve any extra appointments or medication. The main thing you will do is have a special device called Gastric Alimetry™ placed on your skin. This device has sticky sensors that go on your tummy area to measure the electrical activity of your stomach. Researchers will make sure you are comfortable. The study will look at your stomach activity before and after your hernia repair surgery. The total duration of your involvement will depend on when your surgery is scheduled.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Churchill HospitalApproximateOxford, United Kingdom
Common questions
What exactly is a para-oesophageal hernia?
It's when part of your stomach pushes up through an opening in your diaphragm (the muscle separating your chest and tummy) into your chest.
What is 'Body Surface Gastric Mapping'?
It's a gentle way to measure your stomach's electrical activity and movements using special sticky sensors placed on the skin over your stomach.
Will this study give me any direct health benefits?
No, there are no immediate health benefits for you, but your participation will help doctors learn more to help future patients.
Are there any risks to participating?
The device is very safe. The only minor risk is some mild skin discomfort from the sticky patches, which can be adjusted for your comfort.
How long will I be involved in the study?
Your involvement typically depends on your surgery schedule, as measurements will be taken before and after your hernia repair.
How to find out more
Wing Kiu Chou
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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