What is Esophageal Manometry?
Esophageal manometry is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate how well the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food and liquid from the mouth to the stomach, is working. During the test, a thin, flexible catheter with sensors is gently passed through the nose, down the throat, and into the esophagus. These sensors record pressure changes as you swallow sips of water. The test helps doctors assess the strength, coordination, and rhythmic contractions of esophageal muscles, as well as the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). It is particularly useful in diagnosing swallowing disorders, unexplained chest pain, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
This procedure helps to:
- Diagnose swallowing difficulties and motility disorders.
- Assess the function of the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Investigate unexplained chest pain.
- Evaluate patients with GERD or suspected achalasia.
- Guide treatment decisions before anti-reflux surgery.
What to expect after Esophageal Manometry?
The test is usually performed without sedation. Patients may feel slight discomfort as the catheter passes through the nose and throat, but the sensation is temporary. Normal activities can typically be resumed immediately after the procedure.
- Brief throat or nasal irritation is common.
- No restrictions on eating or drinking afterward.
- Return to work or daily activities the same day.
- Results are reviewed with a specialist.
- Minimal downtime compared to other procedures.
