Oesophageal manometry sometimes referred to as oesophageal physiology studies, is a process that evaluates how efficiently the muscles of the food pipe (also known as the gullet or oesophagus) perform their function. A sensor-filled tube that is very thin and flexible is inserted through the nose, through the back of the throat, into the oesophagus, and finally into the stomach.

When the test subject swallows the water, pressure sensors along the length of the tube record the function of their muscles. A wave-like motion known as peristalsis is what the oesophagus uses to carry food from the throat down to the stomach. Oesophageal manometry will determine how efficiently this movement is carried out.

The sphincter, or muscular valve, that connects the oesophagus to the stomach can also be examined during this procedure. The valve needs to be able to relax to let food and liquid into the stomach, and it needs to be able to close to stop food and drink from traveling backward from the stomach and into the esophagus.

PH Study & How It Worked?

Oesophageal manometry is commonly accompanied by a 24-hour pH study, which tracks the patient’s oesophageal pH as usual throughout the day. It is used to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD; stomach acid backing up into the oesophagus), evaluate the efficacy of drugs prescribed to prevent acid reflux, and identify the source of chest pain associated with acid reflux episodes.

To do oesophageal manometry, a smaller tube is used and inserted into the oesophagus via the nasal passages. For the next 24 hours, this tube will be linked to belt-mounted recording equipment. For the first 24 hours after a feeding tube is inserted, the patient keeps a food diary in which they document everything they eat and drink. Both sleep habits and any accompanying symptoms should be recorded in a log. The recording device keeps track of symptoms so they can later be linked to specific reflux attacks. A day later, the tube is taken out.

How The Procedure is Performed?

It will only take a technician 20 to 30 minutes to do this examination. Before the study, a brief history will be gathered, and any queries or worries will be addressed. Usually, you’ll be in a relaxed, reclined, or semi-reclining position. A spray or gel might numb your nose and throat.

Inserting the little catheter into your stomach through your nose will lessen any discomfort brought on.

You will be able to speak, swallow, and breathe generally at this period. You will be prompted to take many deep breaths or swallows throughout the study. Tiny sensors will be used to identify and document the pressures produced by these motions.

Who Should Have Manometry And PH Studies?

The manometry test will give you important information regarding your illness and will assist in determining the treatment that will be most effective for you (practical advice, medication or surgery). People who are exhibiting any of the following symptoms should consider getting this test done;

• Pain when swallowing (odynophagia)
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Chest pain
• Heartburn or reflux

Preparation You Required for Procedure

• No eating or drinking is allowed 8 hours before the exam. For the last four hours leading up to the exam, DO NOT consume anything.
• You may take essential drugs with a tiny sip of water up to 2 hours before your study. These drugs include high blood pressure and cardiac medication. But it would be great if you could consult your doctor for medication.
• If you have diabetes, follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding medication dose. Medications to avoid the day of the procedure include all pain medications, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-spasmodic, and promotility medications. These drugs can change the muscles of your oesophagus, changing the ultimate result of your research.