Oesophageal manometry
Test for reflux and oesophageal function
A diagnostic procedure that can identify issues with your oesophagus
What is oesophageal manometry?
It can help detect the regurgitation of stomach acid (reflux), several conditions which can make it difficult to swallow food, or muscle spasms that can cause chest pain.
Need to know
-
What happens during treatment? icon plus
You will have a local anaesthetic to numb your nose and throat. You'll most likely be sitting upright, in a comfortable position. A thin flexible tube will then be passed through your nose down your throat into your oesophagus and stomach. Once it's in place, it shouldn't be uncomfortable and you'll be able to breathe and speak normally. The tube has a series of pressure sensors, and will record the pressure as you take sips of water. It will also measure muscle contractions in the oesophagus both at rest and when swallowing. The tube will be removed after approximately ten minutes. The entire procedure will last around 45 minutes. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will explain how to prepare for the test, and advise how long you should avoid eating and drinking beforehand. You should inform your consultant of any medication you're currently taking, and they'll let you know if you need to stop taking it for a certain amount of time leading up to the test. -
After treatment icon plus
It's likely you'll have 24-hour pH monitoring immediately following your oesophageal manometry, which is a separate test for reflux. Either way, you'll be able to go home the same day.
Depending on the results of your oesophageal manometry, your consultant will advise on the next steps and any potential treatment. It's likely they'll wait for the results of the 24-hour pH monitoring test to advise on any further treatment or medication.
You may experience a nosebleed or a sore throat after the test, both of which are minor and should soon disappear.
Our GI consultants
We're proud to work with leading GI consultants who specialise in conditions affecting the gastrointestinal region, including the stomach, oesophagus and bowel.
Our locations in London
From complex gastric surgery to test and diagnostic procedures, we provide exceptional gastroenterology care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
-
The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
-
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
-
London Digestive Health
2nd Floor
41 Welbeck Street
London W1G 8DU
-
London Digestive Centre
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
-
London Digestive Surgery
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
-
London Digestion
HCA UK at The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
-
HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
Private oesophageal manometry in Birmingham
-
The Harborne Hospital
Mindelsohn Way
Birmingham B15 2FQ
Contact us about our GI services
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced GI consultants.
Call us on:
020 7079 4344