Esophageal Manometry (Motility Study)

What is esophageal manometry?

Esophageal manometry is a test that measures the function of the esophagus and the characteristics of the valve between  your esophagus and the stomach. The test provides information that assists the doctor in the  diagnosis of patients with swallowing difficulties and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Esophageal  manometry is also used for evaluation prior to surgery. A small, very flexible catheter will be gently inserted through the nose into the esophagus. This catheter is attached to a machine that records and analyzes pressure measurements from sensors on the catheter. This information helps your  doctor to diagnose your illness and plan the best treatment for you.

How should I prepare for the  procedure?

• You may have regular meals on the day before the test.
• Do not eat or drink anything  after midnight. This also includes chewing gum, mints and hard candies.
• You may take certain  necessary medications with a small sip of water up to two hours before the test. Please check with  your doctor regarding any medications you take.
• Notify the nurse or doctor if you are diabetic!  Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding insulin dosage and when to take your pills for diabetes.
• You will be asked to sign an informed consent and provide information regarding allergies, medicines you are now taking, existing medical conditions and previous surgeries.
• You will need to  discontinue Bentyl, Carafate and Reglan 72 hours prior to testing. What can I expect during the  esophageal manometry test?
• Your nostrils will be numbed with an anesthetic gel to allow for easier placement of the catheter. A cotton-tipped applicator (Q-tip) will be inserted and removed, followed  by introduction of the catheter.
• No sedatives will be given for this test.
• The test lasts 15 to 30  minutes.
• You will be asked to lie quietly during the test and swallow small amounts of water  several times until the data collection is complete.

What happens after the  procedure?

• You may resume your normal daily activities.
• Please schedule a follow-up visit with  your doctor to discuss the results of your test.
• Complications of this procedure are exceedingly  rare, with the most significant being esophageal perforation. Sometimes your nose might bleed and you may have a sore throat for one to two days after the test.