Gastric Emptying and Hormones in Critically Ill Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Nguyen Nam Q, Fraser Robert J, Bryant Laura K, Chapman Marianne J, Wishart Judith, Holloway Richard H, Butler Ross, Horowitz Michael
Primary Institution: Royal Adelaide Hospital
Hypothesis
Slow gastric emptying is associated with elevated plasma concentrations of cholecystokinin (CCK) and peptide YY (PYY).
Conclusion
In critical illness, there is a complex interaction between plasma CCK, PYY, and gastric emptying, with elevated hormone levels correlating with delayed gastric emptying.
Supporting Evidence
- 64% of patients had delayed gastric emptying.
- Higher baseline plasma CCK and PYY concentrations were found in patients with delayed gastric emptying.
- Postprandial increases in plasma CCK and PYY were directly related to gastric emptying.
Takeaway
When critically ill patients eat, their stomachs empty more slowly, and this is linked to higher levels of certain hormones that help control digestion.
Methodology
Gastric emptying was measured using a 13C-octanoate breath test after administering a liquid meal to mechanically ventilated patients.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the selection of patients and the influence of medications on hormone levels.
Limitations
The study is cross-sectional, which limits causal inferences about the relationships observed.
Participant Demographics
39 mechanically ventilated critically ill patients (24 males; mean age 55.8 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.045
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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