What is an Esophageal Manometry?
Esophageal manometry, also called esophageal motility testing, is a procedure used to evaluate how well the muscles in your esophagus move food and liquids toward your stomach. It’s typically recommended for patients who have difficulty swallowing, for both solids and liquids.
This test is performed by the team at the Center for Gastrointestinal Motility at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. The center provides advanced, team-based care for patients with complex esophageal, motility, and gut-brain interaction disorders.
Why Might I Need an Esophageal Manometry Test?
This test helps diagnose motility disorders, such as
- Achalasia
- Diffuse esophageal spasm
- Nutcracker esophagus
- Hypertensive lower esophageal sphincter
It may also be performed to assess chest pain for patients with spasm disorders not caused by a heart condition or before surgery for to .
Esophageal manometry is not used to evaluate anatomical disorders of the esophagus, such as peptic strictures and esophageal cancer.
How Can I Prepare for Esophageal Manometry?
- Do not eat or drink anything after 12 a.m. (midnight) the night before your test
- If you have diabetes, please check with your primary care doctor for specific instructions
- You may take your scheduled medications with small sips of water, up until two hours before the procedure
What Should I Expect on the Day of My Procedure?
A technician will gently insert a catheter through your nose and guide it into your stomach. You will not be sedated, as sedatives could interfere with the normal movement of your esophagus.
During the procedure:
- The catheter is slowly withdrawn to measure pressure changes in your esophagus and record data for your care team to review later.
- You may be asked to take a deep breath or swallow small sips of water to help measure how your esophageal muscles are working
The test typically takes about 45 minutes. Most patients are able to return to their normal routine shortly afterward, including eating and drinking. Some may experience mild discomfort, which varies from person to person.
What Happens After an Esophageal Manometry?
A gastroenterologist will review the pressure readings and provide you with a detailed report.
