Upper GI Manometry

Esophageal manometry (upper GI manometry) is a test that measures how well the muscles in your esophagus (food pipe) work when you swallow. A thin, flexible tube with pressure sensors is gently passed through your nose into your esophagus. It records the strength and coordination of muscle contractions as you take small sips of water.

Manometry is essential for diagnosing conditions like achalasia, esophageal spasm, and ineffective esophageal motility. It's also required before anti-reflux surgery to ensure the esophagus can handle the procedure.

1. A thin catheter is gently passed through one nostril into your esophagus — numbing spray is used to minimize discomfort
2. Once in place, you'll be asked to take small sips of water
3. The sensors record the pressure and coordination of your esophageal muscles during each swallow
4. The test typically takes 15–20 minutes
5. The catheter is then gently removed — no sedation needed

15–20 minutes

• ✓Fasting for 6 hours before the test
• ✓Stop proton pump inhibitors if instructed by your doctor
• ✓Avoid hard-to-digest foods the night before

• •The catheter insertion may cause brief gagging — this passes quickly
• •The test itself is not painful, just slightly uncomfortable
• •You can return to normal activities immediately after
• •Results are reviewed by your doctor and discussed at your follow-up visit