Syllabus · Current · V5 (2025) · Gastrointestinal System
J1 · Gastrointestinal Anatomy and Physiology
J1.iii · GI Motility & Lower Oesophageal Sphincter
Describe the control of gastrointestinal motility, including lower oesophageal sphincter function.
Written examination
SAQ history
GI Motility — Gastric Emptying
4 exam appearances
GI Motility — Reflux Prevention
1 exam appearance
GI Pharmacology — Erythromycin & Emptying
2 exam appearances
(a) Describe the physiological factors that influence gastric emptying (80% of marks). (b) With respect to erythromycin, outline the following: (i) mechanism of action on gastric emptying (10% of marks). (ii) important gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal adverse effects (10% of marks).
32%
Describe the physiology of gastric emptying (80% of marks). Outline the gastrointestinal effects of erythromycin (20% of marks)
41%
Oral examination
VIVA history
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2016B · Day 1 · VIVA 7
This viva tested knowledge of respiratory physiology including lung volumes and changes with obesity. It then went on to discuss physiology of the lower oesophageal sphincter and gastric emptying .It went to cover the pharmacology of metoclopramide.
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2013B · VIVA 2
This Viva explored knowledge of the physiology of swallowing and the passage of food through the oesophagus. It began by discussing the stages of swallowing, and then moved on to the cough reflex, the lower oesophageal sphincter and metoclopramide. Most candidates had a good knowledge of swallowing, but were less informed about the cough reflex and innervation of the larynx.
Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.