Esophageal Manometry
Esophageal Manometry: Reliable Method for Diagnosing Reflux and Swallowing Difficulty
Esophageal manometry is a test that measures the movements and pressure changes of the esophagus. This test is used to understand how the esophagus works, especially in people experiencing difficulty swallowing or symptoms of reflux.
Table of Contents
- -Esophageal Manometry: Reliable Method for Diagnosing Reflux and Swallowing Difficulty
- -What is the Purpose of Esophageal Manometry and Why is it Done?
- -How is Esophageal Manometry Performed?
- -Advantages of Esophageal Manometry Test
- -Risks of Esophageal Manometry Test
What is the Purpose of Esophageal Manometry and Why is it Done?
Esophageal manometry is a test that measures the contraction and relaxation movements of the esophagus. The esophagus is a tube that extends from the mouth to the stomach and has peristaltic movements that carry the food and liquids you swallow to the stomach. Esophageal manometry is used to check whether these movements are normal.
This test is typically recommended for the following conditions:
- 1- Esophageal Spasm: This swallowing problem is characterized by numerous, strong, poorly coordinated muscle contractions of the esophagus.
- 2- Achalasia This rare condition occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter muscle does not relax to allow food to enter the stomach. This can cause difficulty swallowing and food regurgitation into the throat.
- 3- Scleroderma: In many people with this rare disease, the muscles in the lower esophagus stop moving, causing severe gastroesophageal reflux.
If your doctor has recommended anti-reflux surgery to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), you may need esophageal manometry to ensure that anti-reflux surgery cannot help if you have achalasia or scleroderma.
How is Esophageal Manometry Performed?
Esophageal manometry is usually performed using a thin, flexible tube (catheter) passed through your nose and into the esophagus. This tube takes pressure readings at various parts of the esophagus. During swallowing, it is examined whether the esophagus contracts properly and how it carries food to the stomach.
Esophageal manometry is usually performed using a thin, flexible tube (catheter) passed through your nose and into the esophagus. This tube takes pressure readings at various parts of the esophagus. During swallowing, it is examined whether the esophagus contracts properly and how it carries food to the stomach.
- - Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient's stomach must be completely empty. Therefore, patients are usually asked not to eat or drink water for at least 6 hours before the procedure.
- - Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is typically used. This is necessary to provide patient comfort and minimize discomfort during the procedure. Anesthesia is usually applied in spray form to the nose.
- - Catheter Insertion: After anesthesia, a special catheter is advanced from your nose to your esophagus and stomach. This catheter has multiple sensors that can take pressure measurements at various parts of the esophagus.
- - Pressure Measurements: After the catheter is inserted, it measures the muscle movements and pressure changes in the esophagus. This stage usually involves swallowing movements; measurements are taken while the patient swallows specific amounts of water.
- - Data Collection and Evaluation: The data obtained during the measurements are then recorded on a computer for analysis and evaluation. This data is used to assess the functioning of the esophagus and identify potential problems.
- - Catheter Removal: After the procedure is completed, the catheter is carefully removed.
Esophageal manometry usually takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour and is typically performed on an outpatient basis. After the procedure, the patient can usually resume normal activities. However, some patients may experience mild throat discomfort after the procedure.
Advantages of Esophageal Manometry Test
- 1- Precise Diagnosis: Esophageal manometry is an effective tool in understanding the functioning of the esophagus in individuals with swallowing disorders and reflux symptoms. By measuring the movements and pressure changes of the esophagus, it allows determination of the source of swallowing problems or reflux.
- 2- Treatment Planning: Treatment Planning:
Risks of Esophageal Manometry Test
Esophageal manometry is generally a safe procedure, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. Mild discomfort may be experienced during catheter insertion. Additionally, there is a very rare risk of infection.
Esophageal manometry is an important tool in understanding swallowing disorders and reflux. This procedure is essential for making an accurate diagnosis and creating an effective treatment plan. Consult your doctor for detailed information.
ENDOSCOPY/COLONOSCOPY
ENDOSCOPIC OBESITY
ADVANCED ENDOSCOPY
ENDOSCOPIC REFLUX PROCEDURES