trio smart breath test instructions

Understanding the Trio-Smart Breath Test

The Trio-Smart Breath Test is a cutting-edge diagnostic tool utilized by clinicians to identify SIBO, IMO, and ISO, offering a comprehensive assessment of intestinal health․

This advanced test distinguishes itself by measuring three crucial gases – hydrogen (H2), methane (CH4), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) – providing a more complete picture than traditional methods․

What is the Trio-Smart Breath Test?

The Trio-Smart Breath Test, developed by Gemelli Biotech, represents a significant advancement in diagnosing Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), Intestinal Methane Overgrowth (IMO), and Intestinal Sulfide Overproduction (ISO)․

Unlike conventional SIBO tests focusing solely on hydrogen and methane, this test uniquely measures all three gases (H2, CH4, and H2S)․ This comprehensive three-gas detection is crucial, as sulfide-producing bacteria are often missed by standard tests․

The test involves collecting breath samples at specific intervals after consuming a glucose solution, allowing for accurate assessment of gas production within the small intestine․ It’s often used alongside the IBS-Smart blood test for a complete GI symptom diagnosis․

Conditions Diagnosed: SIBO, IMO, and ISO

The Trio-Smart Breath Test is specifically designed to diagnose three distinct conditions affecting the small intestine: Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), Intestinal Methane Overgrowth (IMO), and Intestinal Sulfide Overproduction (ISO)․

SIBO occurs when excessive bacteria reside in the small intestine, while IMO is characterized by elevated methane production․ Critically, ISO, often overlooked, involves increased hydrogen sulfide gas․

The test’s ability to detect all three gases – hydrogen, methane, and hydrogen sulfide – is paramount, as symptoms and treatment strategies differ based on the predominant gas produced․ Accurate diagnosis guides targeted therapies for optimal patient care․

The Importance of Three-Gas Detection (H2, CH4, H2S)

Traditional SIBO breath tests often only measure hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4), potentially missing crucial diagnostic information․ The Trio-Smart test stands apart by incorporating hydrogen sulfide (H2S) detection, a significant advancement in SIBO diagnostics․

Elevated H2 levels indicate bacterial fermentation, while CH4 suggests archaeal activity․ However, H2S, produced by certain bacteria, is linked to more severe gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain․

Detecting all three gases allows for a more precise diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, addressing the specific underlying cause of a patient’s digestive issues․

Kit Contents & Verification

The Trio-Smart kit includes nine collection bags, labels, a mouthpiece, a biohazard bag, a pre-paid shipping label, a requisition form, orange glucose, and a guide․

Breath Collection Bags (Quantity: Nine)

The kit provides nine specialized breath collection bags, essential for gathering samples at specific intervals during the test․ These bags are designed to accurately capture and preserve the gases produced by your digestive system․

Each bag is individually sealed to maintain sample integrity and prevent contamination․ Proper use is crucial for reliable results; ensure the bag is not punctured or damaged during collection․ Following the provided instructions carefully regarding filling and sealing each bag is paramount․

These bags are specifically calibrated for gas analysis within the Trio-Smart testing laboratory, ensuring accurate measurement of hydrogen, methane, and hydrogen sulfide levels․

Mouthpiece and Sticker Labels

A sterile mouthpiece is included to facilitate consistent and hygienic breath sample collection․ It ensures a proper seal, minimizing air leakage and maximizing the accuracy of gas measurements․ The mouthpiece is for single-use only; discard it after each sample collection to prevent cross-contamination․

Nine sticker labels are also provided, corresponding to each breath collection bag․ These labels are vital for accurately identifying the sample collection time – every 15 minutes – and maintaining the correct sequence for laboratory analysis․

Clearly write the time on each label before attaching it to the corresponding bag, ensuring legibility for precise result interpretation․

Biohazard Bag and Pre-Paid Shipping Label

A biohazard bag is included for the safe and compliant containment of your used breath collection bags․ This ensures proper handling and transportation of potentially biohazardous materials, protecting laboratory personnel and adhering to shipping regulations․ Securely place all nine used bags within the biohazard bag after labeling․

A pre-paid shipping label is provided for convenient and cost-effective return of your samples to the Gemelli Biotech laboratory․ Simply affix the label to the outside of the package containing the biohazard bag․

This eliminates the need for separate postage and streamlines the sample submission process․

Requisition Form & Test Preparation Guide

A Requisition Form is included within the kit and must be fully completed and signed before submitting your samples․ This form contains essential patient information and details crucial for accurate test processing and result reporting․ Ensure all fields are legible and accurate to avoid delays․

The Test Preparation Guide provides detailed instructions on dietary restrictions and medication considerations necessary for a valid test result․ Following these guidelines is paramount; failure to do so may invalidate your test․

Carefully review the guide before beginning the preparation phase․

Preparing for the Test

Prior to testing, strict dietary guidelines and medication adjustments are essential for accurate results․ The included preparation guide details these crucial steps for optimal testing․

Dietary Restrictions Before the Test

Adhering to a specific diet in the days leading up to the Trio-Smart Breath Test is paramount for accurate results․ Avoid fermentable carbohydrates, including fruits, vegetables, dairy, and grains, for 24-48 hours prior․

Specifically, eliminate foods high in FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols)․ Refrain from consuming artificial sweeteners, chewing gum, and probiotics․

The day before the test, a bland, protein-based meal is recommended․ Fasting for at least 12 hours before the test is crucial; only water is permitted during this period․ Carefully review the detailed test preparation guide for a comprehensive list of prohibited foods and beverages․

Medication Considerations

Certain medications can significantly interfere with the accuracy of the Trio-Smart Breath Test results․ Discontinue laxatives, antibiotics, and prokinetic agents at least 72 hours before the test․

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 receptor antagonists may also impact results; discuss temporary cessation with your healthcare provider․ Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are currently taking․

Even over-the-counter medications should be disclosed․ It’s vital to follow your physician’s guidance regarding medication adjustments to ensure reliable test outcomes and a proper diagnosis․

Timing and Scheduling of the Test

Careful timing is crucial for a successful Trio-Smart Breath Test․ Schedule the test when you can dedicate approximately three hours without interruption․ Begin the test first thing in the morning, ideally after an overnight fast․

Avoid strenuous exercise on the day of the test, as it can influence results․ Coordinate with your healthcare provider to determine the optimal day, considering any recent illnesses or travel․

Ensure you understand the complete collection schedule – baseline, glucose ingestion, and subsequent samples every 15 minutes for two hours․

Performing the Breath Test: Step-by-Step

Begin with a baseline breath sample, then ingest the provided glucose solution precisely as instructed․ Subsequently, collect breath samples every 15 minutes for a total duration of two hours․

Initial Breath Sample Collection

Before consuming the glucose solution, it’s crucial to establish a baseline measurement․ Take the first breath sample before any substrate ingestion․ To do this, assemble the mouthpiece securely to the collection bag, ensuring a tight seal to prevent air leakage․ Breathe normally into the mouthpiece for approximately 30 seconds, filling the bag completely with your exhaled breath․

Immediately after collection, carefully detach the bag from the mouthpiece, avoiding any accidental punctures or tears․ Affix a sticker label to the bag, noting the time of collection and any relevant identifying information as directed on the requisition form․ This initial sample serves as a vital reference point for comparison with subsequent readings․

Ingesting the Glucose Solution

Following the initial breath sample, you will ingest the provided dose of orange-flavored glucose solution․ Ensure you consume the entire solution within a 15-minute timeframe, ideally over 5-10 minutes․ Avoid consuming any food or beverages during this period to maintain test accuracy․ The glucose serves as a substrate for bacterial fermentation in the small intestine, allowing for the detection of gases produced by microbial activity․

Immediately after finishing the glucose solution, begin the timed breath sample collection schedule․ Accurate timing is critical for reliable results, so adhere strictly to the 15-minute intervals outlined in the test preparation guide․

Breath Sample Collection Schedule (Every 15 Minutes)

Following glucose ingestion, collect breath samples precisely every 15 minutes for a total duration of two hours․ This translates to collecting samples at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105, and 120 minutes post-ingestion․ Consistent timing is paramount for accurate interpretation of results․

Utilize a timer to ensure adherence to the schedule․ Each sample should be collected into a designated breath collection bag, properly sealed and labeled with the corresponding time point․ Avoid any strenuous activity or gum chewing during the collection period, as these can influence gas levels․

Breath Sample Collection Technique

Proper technique is vital for accurate results․ Use the provided mouthpiece, ensuring a tight seal to avoid air leakage during each breath sample collection․

Collect a deep, consistent breath, immediately sealing and labeling each bag according to the time indicated․

Proper Mouthpiece Usage

Utilizing the mouthpiece correctly is paramount for obtaining accurate and reliable breath test results․ Ensure the mouthpiece is securely fitted into your mouth, creating a tight seal around your lips to prevent any external air from entering the collection bag․

Avoid touching the mouthpiece with your hands to maintain sterility․ Take a normal-sized breath, not a deep inhalation or forceful exhalation, and immediately expel the air into the collection bag․ A consistent breath volume is crucial․ Discard the mouthpiece after a single use, adhering to hygiene protocols․

Ensuring a Consistent Breath Sample

Maintaining consistency throughout the breath sample collection process is vital for accurate test interpretation․ Each breath should be delivered with the same force and volume, avoiding deep breaths or forceful exhalations․

Try to breathe at a normal rate, as if you were simply talking․ Avoid any activities immediately before a sample collection that could alter your breathing pattern, such as exercise or eating․ Consistent effort ensures reliable data, minimizing potential inaccuracies and providing a clearer representation of your gut’s gas production․

Sealing and Labeling Each Bag

Immediately after collecting each breath sample, carefully seal the collection bag to prevent any gas leakage․ Ensure the seal is airtight, avoiding any gaps or openings․

Using the provided sticker labels, clearly mark each bag with the corresponding time point – 0, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120 minutes․ Accurate labeling is crucial for the laboratory to correctly analyze the samples and interpret the results․ Double-check the labels before finalizing to avoid any confusion during processing․

Post-Test Procedures

Following sample collection, carefully package the breath bags and requisition form using the provided biohazard bag and pre-paid shipping label for prompt delivery․

Packaging the Samples for Shipping

Ensuring secure transport of your breath samples is crucial for accurate results․ After meticulously labeling each collection bag, carefully place all nine bags into the provided biohazard bag․ This bag is designed to contain and protect the samples during transit․

Double-check that the biohazard bag is securely sealed to prevent any leakage or contamination․ Then, insert the completed requisition form into the biohazard bag alongside the samples․ This form contains vital patient information necessary for processing your test․ Finally, place the sealed biohazard bag into the pre-paid shipping envelope provided in your Trio-Smart kit․

Utilizing the Pre-Paid Shipping Label

Convenience and efficiency are key features of the Trio-Smart system․ Your kit includes a pre-paid shipping label, simplifying the return process․ Once your samples are securely packaged within the biohazard bag and placed inside the shipping envelope, carefully affix the pre-paid label to the outside of the envelope․

Ensure the label is clearly visible and not obstructed․ This label has been pre-addressed to the Gemelli Biotech laboratory, eliminating the need for you to manually enter shipping details․ Simply drop off the sealed envelope at any authorized carrier location․ Tracking information may be available – check the carrier’s website․

Sending the Requisition Form

Accurate and complete information is vital for processing your Trio-Smart Breath Test․ Included in your kit is a requisition form – this document contains essential details about you and your test․ Before shipping, carefully review the form to ensure all fields are accurately and legibly filled out․

Place the completed requisition form inside the shipping envelope alongside your breath sample collection bags․ Do not attach it to the outside of the envelope․ This form links your samples to your patient profile, ensuring correct result reporting to your healthcare provider․

Understanding Test Results

Test results analyze hydrogen, methane, and sulfide gas levels to identify SIBO, IMO, or ISO․ Elevated levels indicate a positive result, requiring discussion with your doctor․

Gas Levels and Interpretation (Hydrogen, Methane, Sulfide)

Interpreting gas levels is crucial for accurate diagnosis․ Hydrogen (H2) indicates bacterial fermentation of carbohydrates․ Methane (CH4) suggests the presence of methanogens, often associated with constipation․ Critically, Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) signifies intestinal sulfide overproduction (ISO), a condition often missed by standard SIBO tests․

The Trio-Smart test utilizes GC-FID technology for precise gas measurement․ Elevated levels of any gas, exceeding established thresholds, can indicate an overgrowth․ Your healthcare provider will correlate these levels with your symptoms for a definitive diagnosis and personalized treatment plan․

What Constitutes a Positive Test Result?

A positive test result isn’t determined by a single value, but rather a pattern of gas level increases․ Significant rises in hydrogen, methane, or hydrogen sulfide post-glucose ingestion suggest bacterial overgrowth․ Specific thresholds vary based on laboratory standards and individual patient factors․

Generally, a two-fold or greater increase from baseline, sustained for a defined period, is considered indicative․ However, interpretation requires clinical context․ Your healthcare provider will analyze the complete profile, considering your symptoms and medical history, to determine the appropriate course of action․

Follow-Up with Your Healthcare Provider

Following your Trio-Smart Breath Test, a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider is crucial․ They will explain your results in detail, correlating gas level patterns with your reported symptoms and medical history․

A positive result doesn’t automatically equate to a diagnosis; it’s a piece of the puzzle․ Your provider will determine the best treatment plan, which may include dietary modifications, herbal antimicrobials, or pharmaceutical interventions․ Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor progress and adjust the strategy as needed․

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If sample collection proves difficult, bags leak, or shipping is delayed, contact Gemelli Biotech support immediately for guidance and potential kit replacements․

Difficulty Collecting Samples

Encountering challenges during breath sample collection is not uncommon․ Ensure a tight seal around the mouthpiece to prevent air leakage, and consistently follow the provided instructions․ If consistent breath delivery is problematic, try slower, deeper breaths․

Confirm the patient understands the proper technique, emphasizing the importance of avoiding food, drink, and smoking immediately before each sample․ If difficulties persist, carefully review the instructional booklet or contact Gemelli Biotech’s support team for personalized assistance․ A failed sample due to collection issues may require repeating the test․

Bag Leakage or Damage

If a breath collection bag is compromised—leaking or damaged—do not use it․ Immediately retrieve a replacement bag from the kit․ Ensure the replacement bag is properly sealed before collecting a new sample, following the labeling instructions precisely․

Document the issue on the requisition form, noting which sample number was affected․ Contact Gemelli Biotech support to report significant kit damage or a high number of compromised bags․ Using a faulty bag invalidates the sample, potentially requiring a repeat test for accurate results․

Shipping Delays

Unexpected shipping delays can occur, potentially impacting sample viability․ Utilize the pre-paid shipping label promptly after sample collection, choosing a shipping method with tracking capabilities․ Monitor the shipment’s progress online․

If significant delays are anticipated due to weather or carrier issues, contact Gemelli Biotech support to discuss potential solutions․ While the kit is designed for timely analysis, delays exceeding a few days may necessitate repeating the test to ensure accurate results․ Document any shipping issues on the requisition form․

Additional Resources

For further information, visit the Gemelli Biotech website for detailed instructions and support․ Explore IBS-Smart at ibssmart․com for related blood test details․

Gemelli Biotech Website

Gemelli Biotech’s official website serves as a central hub for comprehensive information regarding the Trio-Smart Breath Test․ Here, you’ll discover detailed instructions, frequently asked questions, and valuable resources to ensure accurate test administration and interpretation․

The website provides downloadable guides covering test preparation, sample collection techniques, and post-test procedures․ Clinicians can access support materials and training resources to optimize their use of the Trio-Smart test in their practice․

Furthermore, the site offers insights into the science behind three-gas detection (H2, CH4, H2S) and its significance in diagnosing SIBO, IMO, and ISO effectively․

IBS-Smart Blood Test Information

The IBS-Smart blood test, offered alongside the Trio-Smart Breath Test, focuses on identifying post-infectious IBS – a condition often triggered by food poisoning․ While the Trio-Smart assesses intestinal bacterial overgrowth, IBS-Smart investigates the underlying cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms․

Clinicians frequently utilize both tests in tandem for a more thorough diagnostic approach․ Visiting ibssmart․com provides detailed information about the IBS-Smart test, its clinical relevance, and how it complements the Trio-Smart Breath Test in achieving accurate diagnoses․

Understanding both tests empowers healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans effectively․