Oesophageal Manometry and 24 Hour pH Monitoring
Your consultant has referred you to the G.I Clinical Measurement Unit for two tests on your oesophagus and stomach.
Both tests are carried out during the one appointment.
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The first test is called Oesophageal Manometry.
This test involves passing a thin tube (manometry catheter), like a piece of floppy spaghetti through your nose and down into your stomach. Your nose will be anaesthetised and you will sit, sipping water though a straw. The little catheter moves down with your swallows and this takes just a few seconds. You will then lie down on a bed for the monitoring and recording. The catheter is then removed.
This test enables us to measure how tight the valves are at the top and bottom of your oesophagus (gullet). We will also be able to see if they open and shut properly when you swallow. We will also be able to see if your oesophagus ‘pumps’ properly when you swallow.
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The second test is called 24 Hour pH Monitoring.
A very fine tube (pH electrode), like a fuse wire is passed in the same way as the manometry catheter. This is secured in place with tape. You will then wear a small recording device around your waist for 24 hours. You will still be able to eat and drink and will be able to return to work if you wish, so long as you do not work with food.
During this test, the acid levels in your stomach are monitored and we will be able to see if any acid is leaking back (refluxing) into your oesophagus during a 24 hour period.
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Your appointment at the unit is for an hour and a half. This will include explanation and instructions, obtaining a symptom history, consenting, passing each catheter, recording and monitoring.
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You will also need to return to the unit the following day for 10 minutes to have the recording device removed. You will be able to return to work as normal after this.
In view of parking difficulties at the hospital, please allow yourself additional time for parking.
Example 24 Hour pH Monitoring Diet
Lunch – 12:30pm
2 meat/ egg/ cheese sandwiches (no salad). Butter/ margarine are allowed but no sauce or pickles etc.
Cup of tea or decaffeinated coffee with milk. Sugar is allowed.
Break – 3:30pm
Cup of tea / decaffeinated coffee with milk. Sugar is allowed.
2 plain biscuits.
Dinner – 6:00pm
Main meal – any meat/ fish/ eggs/ hard cheese.
Vegetables.
Potatoes (in any form) or plain pasta/ rice.
Cup of tea/ decaffeinated coffee with milk. Sugar allowed.
Break – 8:00pm
Cup of tea/ decaffeinated coffee with milk. Sugar allowed.
2 plain biscuits.
Early morning
Cup of tea/ decaffeinated coffee with milk. Sugar allowed.
Breakfast – 8am
Bowl of cereal or buttered toast.
Cup of tea/ decaffeinated coffee with milk. Sugar allowed.
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If you need extra to drink, please drink STILL water only and in moderation.
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Please remember not to take the tablets listed during the test.
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This is an example diet, you do need eat at regular times during the investigation.
