Manometry
We specialize in modern and advanced anorectal manometry, a procedure that helps diagnose and treat various medical conditions. Dr. Bromberg offers advanced and professional manometry methods, along with vast experience in the field and advanced medical skills. She focuses on personalized care for each patient, and guarantees accurate and efficient results. When you visit, you will receive personal service, professional consultation and treatment of the utmost quality, emphasizing safe and comfortable performance.
Questions and answers on manometry
What is manometry?
This is a test that measures pressure in various parts of the digestive tract. It is performed by passing a thin tube (a catheter) containing pressure sensors through the mouth or the anus into the organ to be investigated. Esophageal manometry is a swallowing test that measures the pressure of the esophageal muscles while swallowing. This test does not interfere with breathing and the esophagus.
What is a rectal manometry?
A rectal manometry is a manometry of the anus. This test is a non-invasive procedure intended to assess the function of the anal muscles. This group of muscles, called the “anal sphincter”, controls the passing of stool. An anal manometry can help determine if these muscles are too loose, too tight, or are not involved at the right moment.
Who performs the test?
The test is performed at the clinic or at a hospital (Assuta Ra’anana for Maccabi HMO) by a technician that specializes in this field. Afterwards, a gastroenterologist that specializes in interpreting this diagnostic case will write the report and interpret the results.
Why is it important to have manometry done, and what diseases can be diagnosed with it?
Esophageal manometry may be recommended if you have dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), odynophagia (painful swallowing) or treatment-resistant reflux symptoms (including heartburn and chest pains).
Esophageal manometry can be helpful in diagnosing motility disorders, such as difficulties swallowing, heartburn or chest pains, in patients with no structural issues. This test is helpful in diagnosing and treating esophageal motility disorders such as achalasia, scleroderma and spasms. With rectal manometry, we examine the pressure in the anus and general functioning while emptying the bowel. This test provides indication for chronic constipation, difficulties in emptying the bowels, fecal incontinence, and anal pain, and may be performed before hemorrhoid surgery.
How are patients prepared for a manometry examination and what are the important instructions to follow before the test?
- You must fast for 6 hours beforehand.
- You will not be sedated during esophageal manometry, but a topical analgesic may be applied to your nose to make the passage of the tube more comfortable.
- The test measures the contractions of your esophagus while you swallow small quantities of water.
- After the assessment, the tubes are removed, and routine may be resumed.
- For rectal manometry, an enema is required 3 hours before the test.
What results can you expect following the procedure?
Tests are received after two weeks, as after the test is conducted by a technician, the doctor needs to write the report and interpret it.
What are the signs that you should see a doctor after the test is done?
The side effects of esophageal manometry tend to be minor, and may include a mild sore throat, cough, minor nose bleeds and irritation in the sinuses.
How do you prepare for an anorectal manometry test?
You will need to perform two enemas at least two hours before the procedure takes place to trigger bowel movements. This will help cleanse the area, so the manometer can be easily inserted into the rectal cavity.