[High-resolution manometry of the upper esophageal sphincter].

BACKGROUND

High-resolution manometry (HRM) represents a valuable tool for the evaluation of peristalsis in the oesophagus. Due to the wide spacing of the pressure transducers, however, examination of the upper oesophageal sphincter's relaxation period has not proved satisfactory as yet.

DESIGN

A feasibility study was carried out to clarify whether evaluation of the upper oesophageal sphincter's behaviour during swallows is possible using a catheter with very closely spaced pressure transducers.

SETTING

University hospital.

PROCEDURE

Healthy subjects were analysed using a specially developed catheter as well as a modified software to evaluate whether swallow-associated behaviour could be verified.

RESULTS

Interpreting pressure profiles in terms of resting pressure, residual pressure, relaxation time and maximum peristaltic pressure proved to be feasible. The present analysis supports the existence of distinct dynamic swallow-associated phases, which conform to the phases that had previously been postulated. An additional initial phase, however, should be added.

CONCLUSION

This newly created catheter design in combination with the modified software enable a very detailed evaluation of the sphincter's swallow-associated behaviour and represent a valuable, minimally invasive tool with no exposure to radiation for dysphagia diagnosis as well as treatment planning.