Esophageal manometry is a diagnostic procedure to check the appropriate functioning of your esophageal sphincter, abnormal functioning of which can cause gastric problems. When one eats food the food is shifted from the oral cavity to the stomach via the esophagus by a peristaltic movement. If this transition does not happen smoothly it can cause reflux of food contents and acidic reflux back in the esophagus. Which in turn could lead to heart burn and acidity and in severe cases gastro esophageal reflux disease. Esophageal manometry is a diagnostic test to measure the correct opening and closing of the esophageal sphincter to diagnose gastric abnormalities.
What is the principle of esophageal manometry ?
The food bolus moves from the esophagus to the stomach by peristaltic movement which is guided by the movement of the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. In case if there is any abnormality in the functioning of any of these muscles it could lead to gastric ailments and reflux of acid and food contents back into the esophagus. This abnormality in the muscles and esophageal sphincters can be assessed by an esophageal manometry test.
When is an esophageal manometry test advised ?
An Esophageal manometry test is advised in individuals who complain of constant acidity, heart burn, gastric reflux diseases like GERD, chest pain and chronic cough.
How do you prepare for an esophageal manometry ?
This test is performed on an outpatient basis in a gastroenterology lab by a gastroenterologist. You will be asked to undergo a detailed physical and clinical examination before going ahead with the test. The examination will also include your detailed medical history and medication history. Certain medications will be reviewed by your treating doctor before getting the test done, as they may interfere with the test results. It is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or have any chronic illnesses like heart disease or lung disease. You will be asked not to eat or drink anything 6-8 hours before the procedure.
What happens during an esophageal manometry Test ?
You will be asked o change into hospital gown before the test is started. Usually sedatives ate not administered but your doctor might require the need for the same. You will be asked to lie down and a tube will be inserted via the nostrils. A local anesthetic solution might be used during the procedure to avoid the discomfort during the insertion of the tube. You will be asked to lie on your left side. The tube is connected to a machine outside to record the pressure. During the test, you will be asked to swallow water to check the movement of your esophageal sphincter and the esophageal muscles. The movement of the muscles will be recorded by the monitor connected to the tube and readings about the strength and coordination of your muscles will be recorded. This procedure is completed in about 30-4o minutes and you will be allowed to go home after the test and the report will be discussed at your next appointment or depending upon the hospitals policy of reporting.
What are the risks and complications associated with esophageal manometry ?
Esophageal manometry is an invasive procedure but it is rather safe and the only complications which could occur are an irritation in the throat, bleeding from the nose, discomfort, nauseating feeling and the rarest being damage or perforation of the esophagus. It is always advised that you discuss the risks and benefits of any invasive procedure with your treating doctor before going ahead with the same.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
