Esophageal Manometry

Esophageal manometry is a specialized test used to evaluate the function of the esophagus, the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. This test is particularly helpful if you're experiencing symptoms like difficulty swallowing, pain when swallowing, or persistent heartburn. It's also commonly used to diagnose conditions such as achalasia, a disorder affecting the ability of the esophagus to move food toward the stomach, or to assess esophageal function before anti-reflux surgery.

During esophageal manometry, a thin, flexible tube is gently passed through your nose, down your throat, and into your esophagus. This tube measures the muscle contractions of your esophagus when you swallow, assessing the coordination and strength of these contractions. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes and is done on an outpatient basis. While the test may be a bit uncomfortable, it's not usually painful. Before undergoing esophageal manometry, your healthcare provider will explain how to prepare for the test, what you can expect during the procedure, and how to interpret the results.