A computer-assisted technique for 24-hour esophageal monitoring

Modern computer design offers the opportunity to rapidly and objectively analyze the large quantity of data obtained during prolonged intraesophageal monitoring. The purpose of this study is: (1) to describe a rapid automated technique for acquisition and analysis of esophageal parameters, using a microcomputer; and (2) to compare computerized versus manual analysis of physiograph recordings. Ten normal subjects underwent 24-hr computerized monitoring of intraesophageal function, including: (1) pH recording at 5 and 10 cm above the lower esophageal sphincter (LES); (2) pharyngeal contraction; (3) esophageal contraction at 5 and 10 cm; (4) posteriorly directed LES pressures; and (5) gastric pressure. Segments from several studies were chosen for comparison of physiograph data with that obtained by computer. No significant differences were found except for the number of esophageal contractile events. This difference stems from a problem of shifting baseline related to subject position. Thus, the computer can be used for analysis of large quantities of data obtained from prolonged esophageal monitoring.