The purpose of the esophageal manometry test is to show how well the esophagus and these sphincters (upper—when food swallowed and lower—when food enters stomach) work together to transport the food from the mouth to the stomach.
Preparing your child
- If catheter placed without anesthesia your child should not eat for 2 hours; if anesthesia needed, no food for 8 hours/no liquid for 6 hours.
- Explain to your child how the test is done (The nurse will help you do it before the test. It may be helpful for your child to bring a favorite toy to make your child more comfortable during the procedure.)
Description of test
- Your child will be in the motility room/or procedure room if anesthesia needed.**
- The doctor will place a small catheter with sensors into your child’s nose down to the esophagus.**
- The tube will be taped on your child’s cheek to keep it in place.**
- The tube is connected to a manometry machine.**
- During the test your child will be asked to take sips of water and eat small pieces of solid foods. As your child drinks and eats, the doctor will be able to see how well the esophagus is working.**
- Parents may be with their child or wait in the waiting area.**
- The test will take about an hour.**
During the test
- Your child may gag when the tube is first placed in the esophagus.
- Your child will be asked to lie as still as possible during the test.
- The test involves putting water into the colon; your child may need to go to the bathroom more often than usual.
- This test does not cause pain, although it may be uncomfortable for your child—we will work to make them as comfortable as possible.
After the test
- Your child may return to a normal diet, play and usual activities once the test is completed and the tube is removed from the colon and rectum.
- Your doctor will discuss the results of the test with you.
