Your physician may ask you to undergo testing to determine the functioning of your esophagus (food pipe). The results of these tests will be used to more accurately diagnose your condition and to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

It has been requested for you to have a Stationary Esophageal Manometry. This is a test to determine how well your esophagus is working. Your esophagus is made up of muscle tissue and this test measures the functional ability of the muscle.

Specifically this test measures the length, pressure and relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (the valve between your stomach and esophagus), how well your esophagus contracts (squeezes) when you swallow, and how well your upper esophageal sphincter is working.

To perform the test a soft polyvinyl catheter (tube) that is 5mm in diameter is passed through your nose, down the back of your throat and into your esophagus. You are awake for this test (you will receive no sedation). A topical anesthetic will be used to numb your nose before the tube is inserted. Having the tube inserted is moderately uncomfortable. Despite the local anesthetic you will still feel pressure in your nose as the tube is inserted. It is also normal to gag when the tube is first at the back of your throat but once the end of the tube is past that point the gagging sensation eases. You will not choke and you will always be able to breathe. Once the tube is down, the test takes about 40 minutes.

Your cooperation is of the utmost importance in obtaining a good result from the test. We will ask you to relax, breathe normally and to not swallow too often during the test.

Complications of this procedure are exceedingly rare, the most significant being esophageal perforation. Sometimes your nose may bleed and you might have a sore throat after the procedure. If you have any questions regarding your need for having this test, please call the physician who has requested you to undergo the test. He or she will be able to answer those questions.