Barostat

Barostat is a medical device used to measure and adjust the pressure within a system. It is commonly used in gastroenterology to assess the sensitivity and compliance of the gastrointestinal tract.

Function

A barostat consists of a pressure sensor and a control mechanism. The pressure sensor detects changes in pressure within the system, and the control mechanism adjusts the pressure to a pre-set level. This is achieved by either adding or removing gas or fluid from the system. In the context of gastroenterology, a barostat may be used to inflate a balloon within the gastrointestinal tract to a specific pressure, allowing for the measurement of the tract's response to distension.

Clinical Use

In clinical practice, barostats are used in a variety of procedures. They are often used in endoscopy to maintain a constant pressure within the gastrointestinal tract, improving visibility and reducing patient discomfort. Barostats are also used in research to study the mechanics of the gastrointestinal tract and the effects of various treatments on its function.

Research Use

In research, barostats are used to study the visceral sensitivity and compliance of the gastrointestinal tract. This can provide valuable information about conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia, which are thought to involve abnormalities in visceral sensitivity and compliance.

See Also

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopy
• Visceral sensitivity
• Compliance (medicine)