Version July 2025
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What is esophageal manometry? —
This is a test to measure the pressure at different places inside the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.
The esophagus has different muscles. At the upper end is a muscle called the upper esophageal sphincter ("UES"). It keeps food and liquid from getting into the airways. At the lower end is a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter ("LES"). When a person eats, the LES relaxes so food can move from the esophagus into the stomach.
For manometry, a small tube that senses pressure is inserted through the nose. It goes down the esophagus and into the stomach (figure 1). The results can tell the doctor how well the muscles in the esophagus are working.
Why might I have esophageal manometry? —
Your doctor might recommend this test if you have symptoms like:
●Trouble swallowing
●Heartburn
●Chest discomfort after eating
●Acid reflux that is not getting better with medicines
The test can help the doctor figure out what is causing your symptoms.
It might also be done if you will have surgery to treat "gastroesophageal reflux disease," or "GERD." This is when acid reflux causes symptoms or damage.
How do I prepare for esophageal manometry? —
Esophageal manometry is usually done by a nurse with special training. They will tell you if you need to do anything special to prepare. They will probably ask you not to drink or eat anything for a period of time before the test (called fasting).
Your nurse will also ask you about your "health history." This involves asking you questions about any health problems you have or had in the past, past surgeries, and any medicines you take. Tell them about:
●Any related tests you had (such as an upper endoscopy or barium X-ray)
●Any allergies you have
What happens during esophageal manometry? —
When it is time for the test:
●The nurse might use medicine to numb the inside of your nose and throat.
●They will put a thin, flexible tube into your nose and down your throat. This might be uncomfortable or make you gag when it goes in. They will ask you to take several swallows to help guide the tube down your esophagus until the end is in your stomach. The tube is connected to a computer. It will record the pressure of the muscles in your esophagus and at the junction of your esophagus and stomach.
●You will drink sips of water so the nurse can record the pressure each time you swallow. They will tell you when to swallow, usually at least 10 times.
●During the test, you might lie on your back or sit in a reclined position. You need to stay as still as possible.
●When the test is done, the nurse will gently remove the tube.
●The test usually takes about 60 minutes.
What happens after esophageal manometry? —
You can go back to your normal activities.
The nurse will talk to you about when to expect your test results. The results will show how well the muscles in the different parts of your esophagus are working. The results will be shared with the doctor or nurse who requested the test. If the results show any problems, they will talk to you about what to do next.
What are the risks of esophageal manometry? —
Esophageal manometry is safe. There is a small risk of a nosebleed after the test.
Patient education: Dysphagia (The Basics)
Patient education: Acid reflux and GERD in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Fundoplication (The Basics)
Patient education: Gastroesophageal reflux disease in adults (Beyond the Basics)
