Overview
A probe is placed into the oesophagus to record the motor activity of the oesophagus
Duration of the examination: 45 minutes
Description
Oesophageal manometry is a test that enables pressure (contractile force) along the length of the oesophagus and the degree of closure or opening of the lower oesophageal sphincter (entrance to the stomach) to be assessed. In addition, impedance allows the transit of the food bolus in the oesophagus to be assessed.
Oesophageal manometry is the essential examination to assess motor problems of the oesophagus. However, oesophageal problems may only be intermittent and, as a result, may not be detected during manometry.
The examination is indicated, in particular, for people with difficulties swallowing and before a surgical procedure for a hiatal hernia or gastro-oesophageal reflux.
Preparation before the examination
Your doctor will prescribe you with medication that you need to take on the morning of the examination. Local anaesthesia will be administered in the nostrils and a tube will be placed in the oesophagus.
The insertion of the probe takes 1 to 3 minutes and the examination takes around 45 minutes.
After the examination
No particular monitoring is required and you can return home after the examination. The results will be sent to your doctor.
If you experience a problem following the examination, please contact the centre right away or, failing that, your attending doctor or the emergency department.