Esophageal manometry
"For esophageal manometry to be conclusive, it is important for the patient to collaborate by following the doctor's instructions".
DR. Mª TERESA BETÉS IBAÑEZ SPECIALIST. DIGESTIVE DEPARTMENT
Esophageal manometry is used to measure the functioning of the esophagus by placing a thin probe with holes in its end portion that can measure pressure in the esophagus.
It is important for the patient to collaborate by swallowing saliva or fluid when indicated by the physician so that esophageal manometry is conclusive.
When is esophageal manometry indicated?
The results of this test can help identify causes of chest pain, burning, or problems with difficulty swallowing or passing food from the mouth to the stomach.
It may also be helpful in planning some types of surgery or determining the effectiveness of previous surgery.
Most frequent indications of this test:
- Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia).
- Chest pain.
- Gastroesophageal reflux.
Do you have any of these diseases?
Esophageal manometry may be required
How is esophageal manometry performed?
First of all, the doctor who is going to perform it will explain to you what it consists of and what you must do to have the least discomfort during the placement of the probe and to obtain the results expected from this exploration.
Initially, a thin tube is placed, usually through the nose, into the stomach. This is the only maneuver that, in some people, can be uncomfortable, because it causes sneezing (when the tube goes through the nose) or nausea (when it goes through the throat). It is not a painful test.
In some cases where the placement of the tube is difficult, it may be necessary to use a radiological control or assistance through endoscopy. Once correctly placed in the stomach, the discomfort derived from the exploration is minimal and the exploration takes about 15-20 minutes.
The tube that has been placed in the stomach is connected to a pressure system and a computer, so that the pressures generated in the oesophagus when swallowing are reflected on the computer screen by means of graphics.
After the scan, you may notice slight discomfort in the throat, which disappears in a short time.
This test has no major complications and, after the scan, you can eat and lead a normal life.
Solid and liquid food should be avoided for 12 hours before the scan (minimum time is 6 hours). During this time, smoking is also not allowed.
There are some drugs that modify esophageal motility and therefore may alter the results of this test. If you are taking medication, it is advisable that you tell your doctor to stop it if necessary before performing the exploration. Before starting the exploration, the glasses and dental prosthesis are removed.
Where do we do it?
IN NAVARRE AND MADRID
The Department of Digestive
of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra
The Digestive Department of the Clinica Universidad de Navarra is composed of a multidisciplinary team of specialists who are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive tract.
Our objective is that each diagnosis be carefully established and the treatment plan adjusted to each patient.
Why at the Clinica?
- Medical specialists who are national references.
- Specialized nursing team.
- Endoscopy Unit and High Risk Digestive Tumor Prevention and Consultation Unit to offer the best care to our patients.
Our team of professionals
