Esophageal Manometry

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This is a test performed in our office that is used to evaluate the muscles that help with swallowing. The test takes about 30 minutes and is performed while your child is awake. The test involves passing a tube through the nose and into the esophagus. It is most often used in children with chest pain or difficulty swallowing after an upper endoscopy (EGD) has been performed. The following guide will help you understand what to expect and how to prepare for the test. You will schedule a follow-up visit two weeks after your procedure to discuss the results with your provider.

Before the test 

  • Read through this packet.
  • Explain to your child how the test will be done. 

Packing checklist 

  • Wear comfortable clothes
  • Extra t – shirt

Before you leave the house 

  • Do not eat food after midnight before your test.
  • Do not drink or eat anything 4 hours before your test.

Let us know if your child has

  • Diary or wheat allergy
  • Latex Allergy
  • Celiac Disease
  • Recent broken nose
  • Heart condition
  • Bleeding disorder

When you arrive 

  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before the test and register at the front desk.
  • Someone will check you and your child in.
  • You will be asked to fill out a short form describing your child’s symptoms.
  • Someone will explain the procedure and ask you to sign a consent form.
  • Your child will be given some numbing medicine in his/her nose.
  • You may stay with your child or wait in the lobby during the test. 
  • A tube will be inserted through the nostril and into the esophagus. Yourchild will be asked to drink sips of water to help the tube get into the correct position. 
  • The tube is connected to a computer, and this will record how well the muscles are working.
  • The test will last about 20 – 30 minutes.

What your child will experience 

  • The nose is numbed with medicine to reduce pain.
  • Inserting the tube through the nose is uncomfortable and may cause some gagging.
  • Some children will have a small nosebleed when the tube is inserted.
  • Your child will lay on his/her back and sit upright during the test.
  • The tube will stay in the esophagus for the entire test.
  • Your child will be asked to take sips of salt water, pudding, and crackers.
  • If your child has certain foods that cause his/her symptoms, please bring one or two of those foods to use during the test.

After the test 

  • Your child may experience some discomfort in the nose.
  • Your child may return to normal activities the same day.
  • Schedule a return visit to discuss the results of the test with your child’s provider at GI For Kids in 2 weeks.

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