Manometry

It is a recording of muscular pressure conditions (Muscular tonus) with the help of a thin tube (probe). The examination can be carried out in the gullet (Oesophagus), in the duodenum and in the rectum.
It is carried out for:

• diagnostics of reflux diseases (backflow of stomach acid into the gullet), especially before a planned operation
• in the case of an unclear breast pain
• in the case of difficulties swallowing
• for diagnostics of constipation of stool and incontinence (unintended defecation)
• for diagnostics of functional small intestine diseases

What do examinations look like and what should I pay attention to?

Gullet (Oesophagus): Before an examination of the gullet, the patient should not eat or drink for about 4 hours. Then a thin tube flushed through with a flow of liquid is inserted into the nose and the pharynx. Finally measuring of corresponding pressure conditions in the gullet takes place with the patient in a reclined position.

The examination lasts about 30 minutes. It is painless, low risk and does not cause any complaints except for an easy foreign body irritation in the nose and in the pharynx.

Rectum: For an examination of a rectum and sphincter, the patient is administered an enema about 30 min. before the examination. With the patient lying in a left lateral position, a thin tube is inserted into the rectum for several centimetres and corresponding examination of an anal rectal muscle is carried out. The examination lasts about 15 minutes. It is painless, low risk and does not cause any complaints except for an easy foreign body irritation and a short feeling of pressure. 

Small intestine: For an examination of a small intestine, a thin measuring tube (probe) is inserted through the nose and throat and is endoscopically placed in the small intestine. For this purpose, a gastroscopy is needed possibly with a short fluoroscopy. The tube is then connected with a recording device, which the patient carries on, and it remains there for about 24 hours. During this time, a thorough record must be taken of all daily events (meals, rest, complaints). The patient can move normally, can eat and drink. The examination is painless and does not cause any complaints except for an easy foreign body irritation. After 24 hours the probe is removed.