Diagnostics

There are a number of procedures that can help the doctor assess and diagnose swallowing and heartburn disorders.

The most frequently used procedures include:

• Endoscopy
• Video-esophagram
• Manometry

Endoscopy is used to see into the esophagus and stomach. A flexible fiber optic tube with a light and camera on the end is swallowed. The camera provides direct visualization of the inside of the esophagus. Endoscopy that explores the esophagus and stomach is sometimes called upper GI endoscopy.

Video-esophagram uses video x-rays of the esophagus, taken after barium is swallowed, to study the movement of the esophageal muscle.

Esophageal manometry uses a thin tube that measures the pressure generated by the contracting esophageal muscle. The tube is passed through the nose, down the back of the throat and into the esophagus.