Esophageal Motility Disorders

Esophageal motility disorders interfere with the regular muscle contractions that move food down the esophagus and into the stomach. These disorders cause difficulty in swallowing, regurgitation of food and occasionally painful spasms.

Tests & Diagnosis

  • Barium swallow study allows X-rays to be taken while a patient drinks a white chalky liquid to visualize the passage of the fluid through the esophagus and into the stomach.
  • High resolution manometry measures the strength, pressure and coordination of your esophagus' muscles. A specially trained nurse guides a small catheter through your nose