General
Is the cost of testing covered by Medicare or my private health insurance?
Most tests performed through MGIU attract a Medicare rebate. There is still an out of pocket fee associated with each test.
Unfortunately, there is no item number for breath testing or the Bravo capsule, faecal calprotectin or infliximab trough levels; therefore the full cost of each test is out-of-pocket. Private health insurance does not cover the cost of these tests.
Do I need a referral?
Yes, a referral is required to ensure we are performing the correct test. A valid referral is also required to claim the Medicare rebate.
For breath testing, we require a referral so we know which sugar to test for and who to send the result to.
When do I get my results?
Results can take up to 2 weeks (breath tests take approximately 3 days to analyse) and will be sent to your referring doctor. You will need to contact them for results. MGIU does not give out results.
Breath testing
Why have a breath test?
Symptoms of bloating, wind, reflux, diarrhoea and / or constipation, lethargy and stomach pain / discomfort (which can vary from mild to chronic) are symptoms you may experience. This may be a result of your digestive system’s inability to digest certain sugars commonly found in many of the foods we eat. Hydrogen / methane breath testing can help in diagnosing a malabsorption of these sugars which may then assist with management of symptoms.
Is there any preparation prior to a breath test?
Yes, careful preparation is required.
Antibiotics and probiotics are not permitted for 2 weeks prior to testing.
If you have used a bowel preparation for colonoscopy / surgery you must wait at least 1 week before undergoing your breath test.
You must follow a special diet on the day prior to you test; this information will be given when you pick up the kit/s but can also be found here. Failure to follow this diet may result in an inaccurate result.
Will a breath test diagnose gluten intolerance?
Breath tests are not used to diagnose gluten intolerance or coeliac disease. A blood test is required for this.
My GP has requested a lactose genetic test, what is the difference?
This is a blood test rather than a breath test, and needs to be performed by a pathology collector.
What is FODMAP and where can I find more information?
FODMAP stands for “fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols”, and are a range of sugars that may not properly digest or absorb in the intestines.
Monash University has some great FODMAP resources, including an app, and MGIU sells copies of the Monash University Low FODMAP diet booklet.
Video capsule endoscopy (VCE)
Can the capsule get stuck?
There is a small risk that the capsule could become stuck in the small bowel. This is uncommon, the estimated risk is 1 in 200. Surgery may be required to remove a retained (stuck) capsule.
For patients with a suspected small bowel blockage, or narrowing, a patency test may be performed prior to undergoing the capsule endoscopy. A/Prof Henry Debinski and your referring doctor will assess the need for the agile patency capsule.
Please inform us prior to the procedure if you have any medical history of bowel obstructions, bowel cancer, diabetes, swallowing problems, cardiac pacemaker or any other implanted electro-medical devices.
24-hour pH / impedance monitoring
Does it hurt?
Some patients experience mild discomfort but there shouldn’t be any pain associated with the test.
Can the tube come out by itself?
The tube is taped securely to your nose/face so it will not come out.
What do I do with the box when I go to bed?
You will place the monitor next to your pillow, ensuring that the tube is not wrapped around your neck.
BRAVO capsule
What happens after I leave the day procedure centre?
Once you are discharged from DPC after your gastroscopy, you will need to pop up to MGIU to go through some patient education. You will need to drop off the data recorder about 4 days later.
High-resolution oesophageal manometry
Does it hurt?
Some patients experience mild discomfort but there shouldn’t be any pain associated with the test.
Can I have sedation?
No, this test requires you to actively swallow. Do not take valium or other muscle relaxants.
What solids are given during manometry?
You will be given water and rice crackers. Sometimes plain rice is also given. Please advise the staff if you have any allergies.
Intravenous iron infusion
Are there any side effects from having an iron infusion?
Side effects and severe reactions are very rare. However, you should be aware that they might occur.
The most common side effects are;
- headache
- dizziness
- hot flushes
- nausea
- a reaction where the needle is inserted (the site of the infusion)
- muscle spasms or muscle pain are uncommon
Venesection
How often do I need to have venesection?
Generally, it is done approximately every 12 weeks once your condition has stabilised.
You will need to have a blood test performed about a week prior to your appointment to see if it is necessary to perform the procedure.