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Diagnostic Sector
Manometry
When we refer to manometry, we are talking about a very important test that is used to measure the pressure of the oesophagus, stomach and intestine.
It is mainly used to measure the function of the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve that prevents the reflux of gastric acid into the esophagus.
It is the main test that will help the doctor to diagnose a variety of digestive tract motility disorders, such as gastroesophageal reflux, diaphragmatic hernia, esophageal achalasia, swallowing disorders and bowel dysmotility.
It is the most reliable test for preoperative evaluation before specific digestive surgery.
How Manometry is performed
Before the test, the patient should be fasting for at least 6-8 hours. During the examination the doctor - using a local anaesthetic - will insert a very thin and flexible catheter which will pass through the pharynx into the oesophagus. The patient will need to swallow water or another liquid several times during the examination and the sensors with which the catheter is equipped record the pressures during these swallowings, allowing the doctor to assess the function of the oesophageal muscles and sphincters.
