| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | The esophageal manometry test measures the motor action of the lower esophageal sphincter, and esophageal body. A catheter measures esophageal pressure and records the duration and sequence of contractions. |
| Alternative Names | Esophageal motility studies; Esophageal function studies |
| How the test is performed | A thin tube is passed through your mouth or nose and into the stomach. This tube is made so that pressure measurements may be taken at intervals along the tube. The outer end of the tube is attached to a pressure transducer (an instrument that will record the pressure). The tube is pulled slowly back into the esophagus. The high pressure zone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a sphincter muscle that acts as a valve to prevent reflux of gastric acid into the esophagus, is recorded. When the tube is in the esophagus, the person will be asked to swallow. The swallowing wave will be recorded. There may be other tests done. The tube is removed after the tests are completed. |
| How to prepare for the test | Eating and drinking is restricted 8 hours before the test. Infants and children: The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year) toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years) preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years) schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years) adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years) |
| How the test will feel | There is a mild gagging sensation when the tube is swallowed. |
| Why the test is performed | To measure LES pressure and evaluate esophageal contractions. This is important in the evaluation of swallowing disorders. |
| Normal Values | The LES pressure is normal and relaxes during a swallow. The pattern of muscle contractions is systematic and coordinated during a swallow. |
| What abnormal results mean | Abnormal results may indicate achalasia (a failure of LES relaxation, causing the esophagus to become dilated and filled with retained food), diffuse esophageal spasm , lack of muscle coordination, and other neurologic or muscular disorders involving the esophagus. Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:gastroesophageal reflux disease |
| What the risks are | People with swallowing difficulty are always at risk for aspiration pneumonia '>aspiration pneumonia (saliva or gastric acid may be inhaled into the lungs instead of being swallowed properly). The presence of the tube in the esophagus may cause increased salivation , increasing the risk for aspiration . |
| Special considerations | Not applicable. |
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