What is Esophageal Manometry?

Gastroenterologists perform esophageal manometry to determine the strength and function of a patient’s esophagus and esophageal sphincter. It measures pressures and muscle contraction patterns in the patient’s esophagus.  

Esophageal manometry is used to evaluate patients who have difficulty swallowing — keeping in mind that there are numerous diseases of the esophagus that cause people to have difficulty swallowing and/or the sensation of having food stuck in their throat.  

Esophageal manometry is also used to evaluate patients who have chest pain that is related to their esophagus (i.e., not their heart), people who suffer from heartburn or acid reflux and those who are scheduled to have certain operations.