What Tests Are Required Before Gastric Artery Embolisation?

Gastric Artery Embolisation (GAE) is an advanced, minimally invasive procedure designed to support weight loss by reducing hunger hormones. Before undergoing this treatment, a thorough medical evaluation is essential to ensure safety and optimal results.

If you are considering this procedure at Bankers Vascular Hospital, here’s what you need to know about the required pre-procedure tests.

 What Is Gastric Artery Embolisation?

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Gastric Artery Embolisation is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. It works by blocking specific arteries (usually the left gastric artery -supply blood to the stomach lining responsible for producing ghrelin, the hunger hormone.

By reducing ghrelin levels, patients experience:

  • Reduced appetite
  • Earlier satiety
  • Gradual weight loss

 Essential Tests Before Gastric Artery Embolisation

A comprehensive evaluation ensures that you are a suitable candidate and minimizes procedural risks.

1.Blood Tests

Routine blood investigations help assess your overall health:

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  • Kidney function tests (Creatinine, Urea)
  • Liver function tests
  • Blood sugar levels (fasting/random)
  • Coagulation profile (PT/INR)
  • Lipid profile

These tests confirm that your body can safely undergo the procedure and heal properly.

2.Thyroid Function Test

Thyroid imbalance can contribute to weight gain. Checking thyroid hormone levels ensures that obesity is not primarily due to untreated thyroid disorders.

3. Ultrasound Abdomen

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An abdominal ultrasound evaluates:

  • Liver health (fatty liver assessment)
  • Gallbladder condition
  • Other abdominal organs

This helps rule out underlying issues that may affect treatment planning.

4. Upper GI Endoscopy (If Required)

In some cases, an upper GI endoscopy is advised to:

  • Check for gastric ulcers
  • Detect inflammation
  • Rule out stomach pathology

This ensures the stomach lining is suitable for embolisation.

5. CT Angiography (CTA)

CT angiography provides detailed imaging of blood vessels supplying the stomach. It helps:

  • Map the left gastric artery
  • Identify anatomical variations
  • Plan precise embolisation

This imaging is crucial for procedural accuracy.

6. BMI and Clinical Evaluation

A detailed clinical consultation includes:

  • Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation
  • Weight history
  • Dietary assessment
  • Review of previous weight loss attempts
  • Evaluation of comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension)

 Why Pre-Procedure Testing Is Important

These tests help:

  • Confirm eligibility
  • Reduce complication risks
  • Personalize treatment planning
  • Improve success rates

Skipping evaluation may increase procedural risk or affect outcomes.

 Treatment at Bankers Vascular Hospital

At Bankers Vascular Hospital, Gastric Artery Embolisation is performed by experienced interventional radiology specialists using advanced imaging technology.

Why Choose Bankers Vascular Hospital?

  • Specialized vascular and interventional radiology center
  • Minimally invasive treatment expertise
  • Advanced angiography suite
  • Comprehensive pre- and post-procedure care
  • Personalized weight management guidance

The hospital ensures that all required tests are completed before scheduling the procedure, prioritizing patient safety and long-term results.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate?

You may be eligible if you:

  • Have a BMI ≥ 30 (or ≥ 27 with obesity-related conditions)
  • Have failed conservative weight-loss methods
  • Are not ready for bariatric surgery
  • Do not have active gastric ulcers

A specialist consultation will confirm suitability.

 What Happens After Testing?

Once test results are reviewed:

  1. The doctor confirms candidacy.
  2. A treatment plan is discussed.
  3. Procedure scheduling is arranged.
  4. Pre-procedure instructions are provided.

Most patients are discharged within 24 hours after embolisation.

 Final Thoughts

Gastric Artery Embolisation offers a promising, non-surgical solution for weight management. However, thorough pre-procedure testing is essential to ensure safety, precision, and successful outcomes.

If you are considering this treatment, consult the experts at Bankers Vascular Hospital for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized care plan.

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