Esophageal Manometry or High Resolution Esophageal Manometry (HREM) is an Esophageal Motility Study (EMS) used to assess the motor function of your esophagus.

 

Normally, when you swallow, your esophagus contracts and pushes the food into your stomach.

 

With the Esophageal Manometry a Gastroenterologist trained in motility disorders (like Dr. Guinwa) can measure the contractions and also the force and coordination of the esophageal muscles as they move food to your stomach.

 

This test is indicated in certain patients who have difficulty swallowing and/or chest pain not related to cardiac issues. Also it can be indicated in specific patients with hiatal hernia, severe acid reflux, connective tissue disorders or even before undergoing bariatric surgery for weight loss.

 

The procedure consists on the placement of a thin catheter with multiple sensors into the nose, that is carefully and delicately pushed inside till it reaches the junction between the esophagus and the stomach, allowing it to detect pressure changes and to record information for later review. The patient will be asked at times to take a deep breath or to take some swallows of water. During the entire procedure the patient is not sedate, because sedatives would alter the functioning of the esophageal muscles and also because several swallowing tests need to be performed.

 

The degree of discomfort is minimal and varies among patients. Overall the procedure takes about 10-30 minutes (depending on how cooperative is the patient) and once is completed, the catheter is removed and the patient can resume normal daily activities and diet.