The esophagus is a tube that connects the mouth and stomach. When you swallow, the muscles of the esophagus contract squeezing the food into your stomach. Esophageal Manometry is a test that measures the pressure and the pattern of muscle contractions to determine if the esophagus is working as it should.
How is it done?
A numbing cream is applied the inside of your nostrils with a cotton swab. Then a thin tube lined with sensors is passed through your nose into your stomach while you are sitting. As the tube is passed, you may gag a small amount but this passes, and your breathing will not be impacted. The tube will be connected to a computer and the rest of the testing is done in a reclined chair. Small amounts of water will be placed into your mouth and you will swallow. The tube will be collecting data about the muscle contractions of the esophagus.
Do I need to prepare?
No. Simply do not eat or drink anything for six hours before the procedure. Certain medications, specifically those in a class called calcium channel blockers, are typically stopped 24 hours prior to the procedure.
How long does it take?
About 30 minutes.
What happens after?
The data will be sent to your doctor who will analyze the numbers. You might have a mild sore throat or slightly irritated nose right after the procedure. If present, these typically improve within hours. You may eat and drink normally.
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