Esophageal/Rectal Manometry

Understanding Anorectal Manometry

Anorectal Manometry is most useful in patients with fecal incontinence and constipation.

How should I prepare for this test?
Prior to an Anorectal Manometry procedure, you will be asked to take an enema prep, and you should not eat anything prior to the procedure.

What can I expect during this test?
During the Anorectal Manometry, you will be asked to lie on your left side. A small, flexible tube, with a balloon at the end, will be inserted into the rectum. This catheter is connected to a computer that measures the pressure within the rectum. During the test, the balloon will be inflated to assess the reflexes of the anal sphincter muscles.

What can be learned from this test?
Anorectal Manometry will measure how strong the sphincter muscles are within the rectal area, and whether these muscles are able to relax during the passing of stool. It can allow better diagnosis of incontinence and some causes of constipation.

Understanding Esophageal Manometry

Esophageal Manometry measures the pressures and the pattern of muscle contractions in your esophagus. Abnormalities in the contractions and strength of the muscle, or in the sphincter at the lower end of the esophagus, can result in pain, heartburn, and/or difficulty in swallowing. Esophageal Manometry is the test used to diagnose the conditions that can cause these symptoms.

How should I prepare for this test?
With Esophageal Manometry, and empty stomach allows for the best and safest examination, so do not eat or drink anything for six (6) hours before the test. Since many medications can affect esophageal pressure, and the natural muscle contractions required for swallowing, be sure to discuss each medication you are taking with our staff. Dr. Klin may ask that you, temporarily, stop taking one or more of these medications before your test.

What can I expect during this test?
During Esophageal Manometry, since the esophagus is a muscular tube that connects your throat to your stomach, our staff will apply a cream to numb the inside of your nostrils. Then, a thin, flexible, lubricated tube will be passed through your nose and advanced into your stomach while you swallow sips of water. When the tube is in position, you will be sitting upright, or lying on your back, while the tube is connected to a computer. Once the test begins, it is important to breathe slowly and smoothly, remain as quiet as possible, and avoid swallowing unless instructed to do so. As the tube is slowly passed out of your esophagus, the computer measures and records the pressure in different parts of your esophagus.

What can be learned from this test?
Esophageal Manometry will determine the cause of abnormalities in the contractions of the esophageal muscle, or the sphincter at the lower end of the esophagus, and allow for better management of problems with swallowing or non-cardiac chest pain.

Source: American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and Wolters Kluwer Health Resources.
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