Manometry and pH Studies
A meeting of experts from around the world have agreed on what constitutes Reflux and GORD and set out guidelines for the investigation and treatment of Reflux or GORD. At a conference in Lyon France agreement was reached on a systematic way to investigate and treat “Reflux” type symptoms.
Relying on history or symptoms alone, even when assessed by a trained medical professional, may not be accurate enough on its own: symptoms correctly identify the condition in only around 80% of patients, so further investigation is almost always required to confirm or rule it out.
Specialised tests such as Manometry and 24 hour pH studies may be indicated in some cases to assist with diagnosis.
This page provides information regarding the Manometry and pH study service offered by LapSurgery Australia. You may have been advised by your doctor to undergo a study to assess your oesophagus. This can be done using our high resolution ManoScan machine which assesses the functioning of your oesophagus. You may also need to wear a monitor for 24 hours to assess acid levels in your oesophagus.
These tests are known as oesophageal manometry (or high resolution manometry) and 24 hour pH monitoring, and together they are the objective way to measure how your oesophagus works and how much acid it is exposed to. LapSurgery Australia offers both in Melbourne using the high resolution ManoScan system.
About the Procedure
Manometry is conducted by passing a small plastic tube (catheter) into the oesophagus via the nose. A local anaesthetic spray makes this more comfortable. During the study you will be asked to hold and then swallow small amounts (5ml) of water or saline. The Manoscan machine then measures the function of your oesophagus. The Manometry studies should take approximately 30 minutes to perform and you are able to drive yourself home following the procedure.
Why These Studies Matter Before Anti Reflux Surgery
Manometry measures how effectively your oesophagus pushes food along, which directly shapes the operation you are offered: a strong oesophagus can suit a full fundoplication wrap, while a weaker one may be better served by a partial wrap. The 24 hour pH study proves objectively that acid reflux is occurring and how severe it is, in line with the international Lyon consensus on diagnosing reflux disease.
Together the two studies mean your surgeon operates on evidence rather than symptoms alone, which is why they are usually arranged before anti reflux or hiatus hernia surgery is planned.
Manometry and pH Study Cost in Melbourne
The procedure fee for our manometry and pH study service is $560. Contact us to confirm the fee for your study, any applicable rebates for your circumstances, and to receive your preparation instructions when booking.
Manometry and pH Study Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about manometry and pH studies
A study that measures the function of your oesophagus. A small catheter is passed into the oesophagus via the nose with local anaesthetic spray for comfort, you swallow small amounts of water, and the high resolution ManoScan machine records how your oesophagus responds.
The main discomfort is passing the tube through the nose. Local anaesthetic in the nose helps but does not completely remove the sensation, and once the catheter is in place it is tolerable. Honest answer: briefly unpleasant, then fine.
No. Swallowing on instruction is an essential part of the study, and the swallow reflex is lost during sleep. If you are extremely anxious, prior sedation medication can sometimes be arranged to help with passing the catheter, so raise this with the team before your appointment.
The manometry study takes approximately 30 minutes, and you can drive yourself home afterwards. If a 24 hour pH study is also performed, a fine catheter stays in place for 24 hours with a small recorder worn under your clothing, and you return the next day for removal.
Yes. Acid suppressing medications must be ceased for the 10 days before the procedure, sedatives for 24 hours, and you need to fast for at least six hours. The full list of medications to stop is in the preparation section above, and we go through it with you when you book.
The procedure fee is $560. Contact us to confirm the fee for your study and any applicable rebates for your circumstances.
Have more questions? We're here to help.
Contact us for more informationReferred for a study?
If your doctor has referred you for manometry or a pH study, contact us on (03) 9760 2777 to arrange your appointment and receive your preparation instructions. If your results lead to a discussion about treatment, you can read about the operations these studies inform on our reflux surgery and hiatus hernia repair pages.
Related Procedures
Your Next Steps
Ready to take the next step? Here is how to get started.