Quick Answer
These specialised tests measure how the muscles and nerves of the food pipe and rectum work. They are used to diagnose achalasia, refractory GERD, dysphagia, chronic constipation and faecal incontinence. Dr. Anando Sengupta performs high-resolution manometry and 24-hour pH-impedance studies at Fortis Shalimar Bagh.
Esophageal high-resolution manometry
A thin catheter with multiple pressure sensors is passed through the nose into the food pipe. The patient swallows small amounts of water while pressures are recorded. The test diagnoses:
- Achalasia — failure of the lower oesophageal sphincter to relax
- Diffuse oesophageal spasm
- Hypercontractile (jackhammer) oesophagus
- Ineffective oesophageal motility
- Pre-operative assessment before anti-reflux surgery
24-hour pH-impedance study
A small probe is positioned in the lower oesophagus through the nose for 24 hours. It records every reflux event — acidic and non-acidic. The test is essential for:
- Patients with GERD symptoms not improving on PPIs
- Atypical symptoms (chronic cough, hoarseness, asthma) suspected to be from reflux
- Pre-operative confirmation of GERD before fundoplication
- Distinguishing genuine reflux from oesophageal hypersensitivity
Anorectal manometry
A catheter with sensors and a balloon is placed in the rectum. The test measures resting and squeeze pressures of the anal sphincters and rectal sensation. It is used in:
- Chronic constipation with straining or incomplete evacuation (dyssynergia)
- Faecal incontinence
- Hirschsprung disease (paediatric)
- Pre- and post-operative pelvic floor evaluation
- Biofeedback therapy planning
Frequently Asked Questions
Esophageal manometry measures the pressure and coordination of the muscles of your food pipe. A thin catheter is passed through the nose into the oesophagus and pressures are recorded as you swallow water. It is the gold standard for diagnosing achalasia and other motility disorders.
A 24-hour pH-impedance study measures actual acid (and non-acid) reflux events in your oesophagus over a full day. It is used in patients with persistent GERD symptoms despite PPI treatment, to confirm true reflux and rule out hypersensitivity.
There is mild discomfort while the catheter is being passed through the nose, but the procedure itself is well tolerated. The catheter stays in for the recording period (10 minutes for manometry, 24 hours for pH study).
Anorectal manometry assesses sphincter pressures and coordination during defecation. It is used in chronic constipation (especially with straining or incomplete evacuation), faecal incontinence, Hirschsprung disease and pre-operative pelvic floor evaluation.
Stop PPI for 7 days before pH study (unless on-PPI study planned). Fast for 6 hours before manometry. Continue normal activity during the 24-hour pH recording.
Yes. Dr. Anando Sengupta consults at North Delhi Nursing Home, Ashok Vihar Phase II (Mon–Sat, 5:30–7:30 PM) — within easy reach of Model Town (3 km), GTB Nagar, Mukherjee Nagar, Wazirpur and Shastri Nagar. Morning slots and procedures (endoscopy, colonoscopy, ERCP, EUS) are at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh (~3 km from Pitampura, with cashless insurance on all major panels). Both clinics serve patients from across North Delhi.
