What is an esophageal motility test?
Esophageal motility studies at GI Alliance of Illinois are tests carried out to measure the contractile abilities (muscle movement) of the esophagus. To perform the examination, a slim and pliable catheter will be inserted into the nose and down to the esophagus. This form of motility study may be recommended to help determine the reason for:
- Pain in the chest area
- Regurgitation
- Swallowing difficulties
- Esophageal spasm
- Prior to esophageal surgery
- Severe gastroesophageal reflux
To meet with a gastrointestinal (GI) doctor who can perform an esophageal motility assessment or esophageal manometry reach out to a GI Alliance of Illinois location near you today.
What can I expect on the day of the esophageal motility study?
Once you are prepared for the study, a member of our healthcare team will then gently insert a slender tube into the nostril. As the catheter is advanced into the esophagus, you will be asked to swallow to help pass it to the esophageal area. Our team will initially adjust the device to assess the contractile ability of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The team will then evaluate the contraction of the esophageal muscles. At this stage of the motility study, you will be required to drink multiple small sips of water. After this, you will be finished with the exam and the catheter will be removed. In most instances, the study will be completed within 30 – 60 minutes.
Since there is no sedation for the test, you will be allowed to leave the endoscopy center as soon as you are finished. In most cases, individuals can eat and drink as usual after their discharge from the endoscopy center, but instructions regarding medications, physical activity, and eating will be given by our staff before discharge.
