How to Prepare for Esophageal Manometry
Location of Procedure
Inova Alexandria Hospital Patient Services Center Endoscopy Suite
Purpose of the Procedure
Esophageal manometry evaluates the function of the esophagus, which also is known as the swallowing tube or food pipe.
The procedure is used to evaluate gastroesophageal reflux disease and swallowing disorders, such as difficulty swallowing, pain with swallowing or the inability to swallow food or liquid.
The exam evaluates muscle contractions of the esophagus and the two muscles at the ends of esophagus - the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
Equipment
This exam uses a thin tube called a manometry catheter, which is placed in the esophagus. Small pressure sensors in the walls of the catheter measure the pressure of the muscles of the esophagus as you swallow.
A computer monitoring system analyzes the results enabling your physician to evaluate the function of the esophagus and LES.
Preparation
To properly prepare for your exam and ensure accurate results, you may need to make changes to your daily routine.
Your physician or nurse will inform you of specific instructions prior to your procedure. Please refer to this guide as directed by your physician or nurse.
- Do not use the following medications for at least
seven days before your exam:
- AcidPhex (rabeprazole), Axid (nizatidine), Donnatol, Levsin (hyoscyamine sulfate), Nexium (esomeprazole magnesium), Pepcid (famotidine), Prevacid (lansoprazole), Prilosec (omeprazole), Protonix (pantoprazole sodium), Reglan (metoclopramide), Tagamet (cimetidine), Zantac (ranitidine hydrochloride)
- Do not drink beverages with caffeine, such as coffee or soda, for at least seven days before your exam.
- You may take over-the-counter antacids up to 24 hours prior to your exam, including Maalox, Mylanta, Gaviscon or Tums.
- Do not eat or drink any food or liquids (including candy, lozenges and chewing gum) for eight hours before your exam. If your exam is scheduled for the morning, do not eat or drink after midnight the night before. If your exam is scheduled for the afternoon, do not eat or drink for at least eight hours before the appointment.
- Certain medications should be continued prior to your exam, including heart and high blood pressure pills. You may continue to take these medications with small sips of water.
- If you take insulin, discuss your regimen with your physician before your procedure.
Medical Information to Share with Your Nurse
Before your exam, your nurse will ask you about your medical history, including:
- related x-rays or endoscopy reports
- all of your medications (including prescription and over-the-counter medications)
- whether you have a history of heart disease
- whether you have allergies or reactions to any medications
What to Expect
The exam takes about one hour. Allow a few hours for preparation and recovery.
You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie on your left side with your head slightly elevated. You must lie as still as possible during the test.
The catheter will be inserted into your nostril and positioned in your esophagus. Your nose may be anesthetized with a topical solution to ease discomfort.
You may feel slight pressure in your nostril and gag as the tube is inserted. Once the tube is in place, the sensation will subside.
You will be asked to swallow saliva (a dry swallow) or water (a wet swallow). You also may receive medication.
The tube will be removed after the exam, and you can return to your normal routine.
Your physician will discuss the results of the test with you or provide them to your referring physician.
