Esophageal Manometry

Patient Guide to Esophageal Manometry

General Overview

Esophageal manometry is a test that evaluates the strength of the muscles of the esophagus. The esophagus is a tube that allows food to pass from the mouth to the stomach. Contractions in the muscles of the esophagus help move the food into the stomach.
Another important part of the esophagus is the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, the lower esophageal sphincter. If this muscle is weak or doesn't function properly, food or liquids can move back into the esophagus, causing heartburn or other symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would my doctor want me to have an esophageal manometry?

- To evaluate difficulty swallowing or feelings of food getting stuck while swallowing.
- To evaluate some patients with GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), such as patients undergoing acid pH testing (pH probe) or considering surgical treatment for GERD (Nissen Fundoplication).
- To evaluate chest pain that may be coming from the esophagus.

What happens during an esophageal manometry? Are there any special preparations?

No special preparations are necessary. You should not have anything to eat or drink for 4-6 hours before the study.
The procedure is performed while you are awake. You will be given medication to lubricate and numb your nose and mouth. A thin, flexible tube will be passed through your nose or mouth and into your esophagus. The tube has sensors to measure the pressures in the esophagus. You will be asked to swallow several times, while measurements of the muscle contractions are recorded. The procedure lasts 20-30 minutes.

What happens after the procedure?

Most patients can resume regular activity and eating after the study.