Prevalence of Gastric Motor Dysfunction and Upper GI Symptoms in Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasias

DIAGNOSTIC_TEST

Gastric Emptying Breath Test

13C-Spirulina GEBT (Cairn Diagnostics) is non-radioactive, non-invasive breath based test validated against scintigraphy for the measurement of gastric emptying. Patients will be mailed test kits to be done in their homes remotely along with telehealth assistance from the study team. After overnight fast and providing duplicate pre-meal breath samples, the patient consumes 27 grams of re-hydrated, precisely formulated, pasteurized scrambled egg mix containing a dose of 43 mg of 13C (provided by approximately 100 mg of 13C-Spirulina), 6 saltine crackers and 6 ounces (180 mL) of potable water. The caloric value of the meal is approximately 230 kCal.Patient will provide breath samples into provided glass tubes before and after test meal administration which are then mailed back to a central laboratory for analysis by gas isotope ratio mass spectrometry.

Nepean Dyspepsia Index

Time frame: baseline

The Nepean Dyspepsia Index is a 10-item questionnaire that measures dyspepsia problems. Each item is scored from 1-5. 1 = Not at all, 5 = Extremely. Total scores range from 10 - 50, lower scores indicate less dyspepsia problems, higher scores indicate more dyspepsia problems.

Abridged Bowel Disease Questionnaire

Time frame: baseline

The Abridged Bowel Disease Questionnaire is a 14-item questionnaire that measures Bowel Disease symptoms. Each item is scored as yes or no. Scores answering yes indicate more bowel disease, and scores answering no indicate less or no bowel disease.

Leuven Postprandial Distress Scale

Time frame: baseline

The Leuven Postprandial Distress Scale is an 8-item questionnaire that measures symptoms of dyspepsia. Each item is scored from 1-5. 1 = Absent, 5 = very severe. Total scores range from 0-40 Lower scores indicate less or no symptoms of dyspepsia, higher scores indicate more symptoms of dyspepsia.

Bowel Disease Screen Questionnaire

Time frame: Baseline

the Bowel Disease Screen Questionnaire is a 20 item questionnaire that measures stomach and bowel disease symptoms. Each item is scored from 1-5. 1=not at all, 5=Extremely. Total scores range from 10-95.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.

Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.

Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.

Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?

When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.

How long does a clinical trial last?

Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.