[Esophago-gastro-intestinal manometry: study methods and potential clinical applications]

Simultaneous manometry of the esophagus and stomach and/or of the jejunum is an unconventional investigative maneuver that, for the most part, maintains features typical of a physiopathologic inquiry rather than those of clinical testing. This method contemplates the radiologically guided installation of an 8-channel probe, with measuring sites spaced 5 cm one from the other. The proximal measuring site is generally positioned at the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), while the remaining are chosen in order to attain 3 or 4 tips in the stomach and 2 or 3 tips in the duodenum (in the jejunum following stomach resection). The examination lasts approximately 6 hours during digestive rest and 2 hours after administration of a solid test meal. Hence it is possible to evaluate the functional changes at the LES with reference to the phases of the Intestinal Migrating Motor Complex, as well as the possible adverse reactions of poor gastroduodenal motility on the sphincter, both during digestive rest and after a meal. The examination, besides the obvious interest of physiopathological nature, in the Authors' experience, has made it possible to attain quite helpful functional clarifications in identifying the clinical picture of patients with complex esophageal and gastric symptoms, reduced gastric emptying, whether or not associated with mixed reflux in the esophagus. This evaluation was found to be useful both in patients with an "intact" stomach and in those who experienced surgery of the initial portion of the digestive tract.