Gastroparesis in the 2020s: New Treatments, New Paradigms

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review highlights recent work that will lead to near-term advances in the understanding and treatment of gastroparesis (Gp).

Recent findings: Major current advancements in the pathophysiology of Gp, include recognition of the SIP syncytium as the pacemaking unit rather than ICC alone and that Gp may be part of a pan-enteric autoimmune and/or autonomic disorder with macrophage imbalance. The development of newer techniques to assess gastric emptying (gastric emptying breath test and wireless motility capsule) and pyloric distensibility (EndoFLIP®) are allowing clinicians better characterization of their patients. In addition to pharmaceutical compounds in the pipeline, neuromodulation and endosurgical techniques, such as G-POEM, may help address refractory Gp. We expect that the 2020 decade will witness exciting developments. Treatments targeting gastrointestinal motility, immunological dysfunction, and inflammatory mediators will be evaluated. We anticipate future studies will be guided by biomarkers correlated with patient outcomes and therapeutic efficacy to establish new paradigms in the management of Gp.

Keywords: Gastric emptying breath test; Gastric emptying scintigraphy; Gastroparesis; Neuromodulation; Pro-motility agents; Wireless motility capsule.