Gastric electrical stimulation uses an implanted generator and stomach-wall leads to deliver electrical pulses. Enterra® therapy may be discussed for selected patients with persistent nausea and vomiting from diabetic or idiopathic gastroparesis despite medication.
Who may be a candidate for Enterra therapy?
The U.S. humanitarian-device indication covers chronic, medication-resistant nausea and vomiting associated with diabetic or idiopathic gastroparesis in patients ages 18–70. A confirmed diagnosis, previous treatment response, surgical fitness, and ability to attend follow-up all matter.
Enterra is authorized under a Humanitarian Device Exemption. The effectiveness of this device for this use has not been demonstrated. Discuss potential benefits, uncertainties, and risks with your clinician. Read the manufacturer’s full safety information.
The 2025 AGA guideline advises against routine use of gastric electrical stimulation. It may be considered selectively after medical treatment, through a discussion of the evidence and your priorities. Read the AGA guidance.
Implantation and treatment goals
Dr. Hughes places the system laparoscopically. Leads connect the stomach wall to a generator beneath the abdominal skin. The device delivers electrical pulses; it does not mechanically push food through the stomach.
The principal treatment goal is reducing persistent nausea and vomiting. Gastric stimulation does not reliably speed stomach emptying and is not a guaranteed solution for pain, bloating, or every gastroparesis symptom. Your team reviews nutritional care and other treatments alongside the device.
Programming, replacement and revision care
Follow-up is part of treatment. Symptoms and device function are assessed together, and settings may be adjusted over time. Battery life varies with the system and settings; generator replacement requires another procedure.
- Device checks and programming.
- Generator replacement when the battery reaches end of service.
- Lead revision, replacement or removal when indicated.
- Generator pocket revision or re-anchoring.
- Evaluation of infection, discomfort, or other device complications, including removal when necessary.
- Gastric wall biopsy during placement when indicated.
If you already have a stimulator, bring your device card, implantation and revision reports, and information about recent programming. Tell the team which symptoms changed and when.
Safety and recovery
Potential risks include infection, bleeding, implant-site pain, lead or device problems, uncomfortable stimulation, loss of benefit, and the need for additional surgery. Rare serious problems include stomach perforation or bowel obstruction related to the leads.
Tell every treating clinician that you have an implanted stimulator. Diathermy is contraindicated. MRI eligibility depends on the exact implanted system and current manufacturer conditions; confirm those requirements before any scan.
Follow your surgical team’s instructions for wound care, eating, activity and follow-up. Contact them about worsening pain, fever, wound changes, or a sudden return of symptoms.
Common questions
Is a gastric stimulator a pacemaker for stomach emptying?
The term gastric pacemaker is sometimes used, but it can be misleading. Gastric electrical stimulation primarily targets persistent nausea and vomiting and does not reliably normalize stomach emptying.
Does gastric stimulation replace dietary or medication treatment?
Not necessarily. Your care plan may continue to include dietary changes, nutritional support and medication. Follow-up assesses both symptom response and ongoing treatment needs.
Can Dr. Hughes evaluate a stimulator placed elsewhere?
His practice includes existing-device assessment, programming and revision care. Bring your device card and previous procedure records so the team can review the system and confirm the appropriate appointment.
Will my insurance cover a gastric stimulator?
Coverage is plan-specific and may require medical-necessity review and prior authorization. Ask your insurer and the scheduling team to verify coverage for the implant, surgery, anesthesia and facility before treatment. An appointment request is not an insurance approval.
Discuss your options with Dr. Hughes
Dr. Michael Hughes is a board-certified general surgeon whose practice focuses on gastroparesis. He will see patients at all five JourneyLite offices and his original Louisville office. View all six consultation locations and request the office that works for you.
Your team confirms appointment availability, referral requirements, insurance participation and any surgical facility. Consultations do not commit you to surgery.
Request a Gastroparesis ConsultationPrefer to call? 877-442-2263
Related treatment: Pyloroplasty for Gastroparesis.
Sources and further reading
Updated September 26, 2026. General patient information; individual recommendations follow a clinical evaluation.