
Digestive Motility Studies

pH - METRIE 24 HOURS
The pH-metry allows measurement of acidity (pH) of the esophagus for 24 hours while the patient performs its usual activities, in order to assess the existence of gastro esophageal reflux (passage of acid contents from the stomach into the esophagus). It can be associated with an esophageal manometry (technique for measuring the pressure at different levels of the esophagus).
It is performed by inserting a thin tube (approximately 2 mm) through the nostril and into the lower esophagus and connected to a portable recording device that records the pH at regular intervals whiles the patient is doing his normal activities.
In patients afflicting unclear cough, dysphonia, recurrent bronchitis or chest pain not clarified, we make a ph-metrie dual channel, which measures acid reflux up to the top of the esophagus
Esophageal manometry
Esophageal manometry is a technique designed to assess esophageal motility by registering the pressure variations that occur in the light making possible the diagnosis of esophageal motor disorders. It is indicated in patients who have difficulty swallowing, study of esophageal reflux of stomach and generally when a malfunction of the esophagus is suspected.
It is done by inserting a tube through the nose into the esophagus. The probe has several orifices, allowing measure pressures at different levels.
This test diagnoses achalasia, esophageal motor disorders, reflux, etc...
Anorectal manometry
Anorectal manometry is the measurement of pressures from external and internal anal sphincter and rectum to evaluate the function of evacuation.
Through the introduction of a tube and inflating a balloon inside the rectum, begins recording the pressure variation which occurs with defecation maneuvers and it sets diagnostic and treatment options.
It is indicated in patients who have difficulty evacuating in incontinent or before anorectal surgery studies.
It is a painless test there is no need to stay in hospital after it.
Colonic transit
This test helps us to evaluate the time it takes the large intestine to make a cycle, that is, food remnants pass through it to reach straight and shape the fecal bolus.
The test involves giving the patient some capsules which have inside some bits of plastic that act as markers which are followed by radiography. Using a mathematical calculation that allows an estimate to find out if there are areas with slowed colonic transit and so identify the type of constipation suffering the patient has.
It is a painless test there is no need to stay in hospital after it.