[Manometric data collection]

Abstract

During the recent years, intraluminal esophageal manometry has developed into an important method for detecting motor function of the esophagus and pharynx. High fidelity instrumentation is now available to perform adequate recording of pressure phenomena of the esophagus. It consists of water-filled catheters systems, perfused by minimally compliant hydraulic system and of intraluminal strain gauge probes. A sleeve catheter assembly is suitable for recording lower sphincteric pressure for long period, despite the respiratory and deglutitive axial movements of the sphincter along the catheter. The pressure events of interest are phasic pressure wave along the esophageal body (usually peristaltic) as well as resting tone and relaxation of upper and lower esophageal sphincters. Recording instrumentation available allows accurate detection of esophageal motor activity both in healthy subjects and in patients.