Esophageal Manometry

Specialists in Gastroenterology

Board Certified Gastroenterologists located in St. Louis, MO

Esophageal manometry is a test that checks your esophagus function. If you have difficulties like pain, frequent heartburn, and swallowing problems, the board-certified gastroenterologists at Specialists in Gastroenterology perform esophageal manometry to uncover motility disorders. They can develop an effective treatment plan to stop your symptoms and get you healthy. Call the St. Louis, Missouri, office or click the online scheduler to arrange your consultation today.

314-997-0554

Esophageal Manometry Q & A

What is esophageal manometry?

Esophageal manometry is a test to measure and evaluate muscle function in your esophagus. Essentially, this test checks how well your esophagus works.

When your esophagus doesn’t function properly, you can develop physical problems that make it hard to live normally. Specialists in Gastroenterology may recommend esophageal manometry if you have symptoms like:

Pain when you swallow
Chronic heartburn
Regurgitating after swallowing
Chest pain

This test determines what causes your issues so your doctor can prescribe customized care.

What does esophageal manometry involve?

Before your test, your provider applies a numbing agent to your inner nostrils. They may also use a numbing spray in your throat.

Then, your provider advances a very thin lubricated tube through your nose and down to your esophagus and stomach. This tube houses a light and tiny camera, which connects to a computer nearby.

Once the tube is in place, you swallow small amounts of water at your provider’s direction. When you swallow, the computer assesses pressure, speed, and movement of your esophagus muscles. Your provider may shift the tube several times to assess function in different parts of your esophagus.

Finally, your provider slowly withdraws the tube. The entire test typically takes only about 30 minutes.

What if I need a more specialized test after esophageal manometry?

In some cases, esophageal manometry might not provide enough information about your specific esophagus mechanics. Specialists in Gastroenterology partners with Washington University to offer another advanced motility testing option: Endoflip™.

Endoflip uses a balloon catheter with tiny sensors that measure your esophagus function with maximum precision.

How do I prepare for esophageal manometry?

Specialists in Gastroenterology provides you with detailed prep instructions before your scheduled esophageal manometry. In general, this typically includes a period of fasting and may also include short-term medication changes.

Follow these instructions to the letter. If you eat, drink, or take a medication that you shouldn’t ahead of your esophageal manometry test, it can skew results and you’ll have to schedule another test.

Specialists in Gastroenterology diagnoses and manages all motility disorders of the esophagus, and they’re ready to help. Book your appointment by phone or with online scheduling today.