GI Results

We got the results from the overnight GI study today. Let's recap, shall we?

Ethan checked into the hospital a couple of weeks ago to run some GI tests, which included:

* Endoscopy
* Esophageal Manometry
* pH probe w/impedence
* Stomach emptying scan

RESULTS:


Endoscopy: Minor esophagitis found. Same as last endoscopy, so no further damage. Celiac negative (yay!).

Esophageal Manometry: Poor motility

pH probe: NORMAL! Reflux is under control with current meds.

Stomach emptying: Over 50% of 8 oz. pediasure still sitting in stomach after 4 hours (unofficial report from tech confirmed)

Now what? Ok, so since his reflux is being controlled the nissen is out. It could cause more harm than good, especially with his poor motility in his esophagus. The other surgery option to be discussed is a Pyloroplasty. It would basically make the stomach empty quicker. For now, a prescription of erythromycin. The med can speed up emptying. We tried this before, but Ethan would cry from belly pain, so we stopped it. There is another medication called Reglan, but the side effects scare the bejeezus out of me, so it is out of the question.

Another thing discussed was to place a feeding tube directly into Ethan's intestines. He can still eat and drink by mouth, this would simply allow us to give him the extra nutrients and calories that he needs without having it sit in his belly. For now, we have a prescription for Duocal Powder. I guess you just add it to food or drink.

I also got a referral for Ethan to see the endocrinologist. I had to ask for it. I hate that. Ethan is NOT GROWING. It hasn't just slowed down the past couple months, he has not grown in a year! Ok, so he has grown 1/2 a centimeter- WOO HOO! He has dropped on the growth chart down to the 5-10th percentile on the Ds chart! It is SO not ok. Weight wise, he is holding his own at around 35-36 pounds. It took lots of half & half to get him there! No more of that. Hello!?!?!? Why was I the one who had to bring up the fact that heavier stuff like that will sit in a regular emptying belly longer, so just imagine how it sits in Ethan's belly! The appointment isn't until November, but at least we are on the books!

Tomorrow, there will be a team of doctors having a pow wow to discuss Ethan's case. The team will include the surgeon and the GI docs- maybe a couple others.

I am not sure how I feel about the results. I expected most of them. I did NOT expect his reflux to be under control. That one threw me for a loop. Granted, I am very thankful that it is, I am just surprised due to some of his symptoms. I hate the idea of any surgery. The idea of a feeding tube bugs me even more. Can't really explain it right now- ask me later why it bothers me so much.

Back to school tomorrow!