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Oesophageal manometry and 24-hour pH study
Category: Digestive Tests & Procedures · All digestive tests & procedures
What it is
These are tests of how the gullet (oesophagus) works. Manometry measures the squeezing strength and coordination of the gullet muscles using a thin pressure-sensing tube. A 24-hour pH (or impedance-pH) study measures acid reflux over a full day using a fine tube or a small capsule attached to the gullet lining.
Why it is done
They are used to investigate difficulty swallowing, chest pain of suspected gullet origin, and reflux symptoms — often before anti-reflux surgery or when standard tests are normal.
How to prepare
You will fast for several hours before manometry. For the pH study you may be asked to stop acid-suppression medicines for a period beforehand if the aim is to test off treatment — only if the team instructs this. Tell them about all your medicines.
What happens during the procedure
For manometry, a thin tube is passed through the numbed nose into the gullet; you take sips of water while pressures are recorded, over about 20 to 30 minutes. For the pH study the fine tube stays in place for 24 hours connected to a recorder (you go home with it, eat normally and keep a symptom diary), or a capsule is clipped inside and passes naturally later.
Afterwards — recovery & results
After manometry you can carry on as normal with a possibly sore nose or throat. After the pH study you return the recorder the next day; analysis takes days to weeks and results go to your specialist.
Risks & considerations
Risks are minor: nosebleeds, gagging during tube placement, and discomfort wearing the tube. The capsule version rarely detaches early or causes chest discomfort. Neither test uses radiation.
Watch: Oesophageal manometry and 24-hour pH study videos
Real procedure videos from the MedicalVideos.com library. Some clinical footage is graphic — that is the nature of a medical video library.
Frequently asked questions
Can I eat normally during the 24-hour study?
Yes — normal meals and activities are encouraged so the recording reflects your real life. You record meals, lying down and symptoms on the diary.
Why test before reflux surgery?
Surgery works best when reflux is proven and the gullet muscles squeeze well. These tests confirm both and help the surgeon choose the right operation.
Related procedures — Digestive Tests & Procedures
Browse the O section of the A–Z list or return to the Procedures & Tests hub.