[Proven indication for manometry and pH determination of the esophagus]

Manometry and pH-metry are essential in the examination of functional disturbances of the esophagus. Before they are used, morphological lesions have to be excluded. Proven indications for functional methods are symptoms which cannot be clarified otherwise. Indications for manometry are: dysphagia of unknown origin, noncardiac chest pain and necessary preoperative studies. Indications for long-term pH-metry are: atypical reflux symptoms, (in particular chronic respiratory disease), noncardiac chest pain, atypical esophagitis and preoperative examination prior to antireflux surgery. Used critically, manometry and pH-metry can be very helpful as cost-effective diagnostic tools.