Pharyngeal Manometry Test


This test assesses how the muscles in your throat work when you swallow.

Symptoms could include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), choking, coughing during meals, or a sensation of food sticking in the throat.

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What is Pharyngeal Manometry?


Pharyngeal manometry is a test used to measure the function of the pharynx (throat) and upper oesophageal sphincter. This test assesses how the muscles in your throat work when you swallow.

You may be referred for a pharyngeal manometry if your doctor or consultant wants to investigate symptoms such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), choking, coughing during meals, or a sensation of food sticking in the throat. This test can help identify whether there is a problem with the coordination or strength of the muscles involved in swallowing. It may also reveal underlying conditions affecting the upper digestive or neurological systems.

Pharyngeal manometry is sometimes performed alongside other tests, such oesophageal manometry and reflux testing, to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of your swallowing and overall oesophageal function. 

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How it works

A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted through your nose, down the back of your throat into your oesophagus. A topical anaesthetic can be applied to make this comfortable

The tube has pressure sensors covering your oesophagus. It’ll be taped to your nose, but don’t worry - it won’t affect your breathing.

You’ll take sips and swallows of slightly salty water and some food of various consistencies, so we can see how the muscles are functioning. Recordings will be made over about 10 minutes, then the tube will be removed.

Download the information leaflet

Preparing for your test

Before you test, there are some things we ask you to do, to ensure safety and accurate results. This includes stopping certain medication and fasting for a short period.

Please read our patient information leaflet for full details.

For 6 hours before your test

You must stop eating and drinking and fast for 6 hours before your test.

The day of your test

  • You can have small sips of water (maximum of 300ml) until the start of your test

  • You may take your essential medicines with a small amount of water

  • You may brush your teeth

ⓘ If you are diabetic requiring insulin or diabetes medicine, please ask your doctor if you should change your morning dose. Oral hypoglycaemic medicines are usually not taken that morning until completion of the test and you start eating again.

Getting your test results

The results will be displayed as a wave pattern that can be analysed by our clinical team to see if your oesophagus is functioning normally.

An oesophagus functionality test like this will use the catheter to measure the rhythmic muscle contractions that occur in your oesophagus while swallowing. The catheter will measure these contractions as well as the force and coordination of your oesophagus muscles as they move food into your stomach.


Pharyngeal manometry is helpful when diagnosing certain disorders that affect your oesophagus.

Following your test, your data will be analysed and results written up into a report.

The report will be sent to both you and your referring consultant/doctor, who will explain the results to you in a follow-up consultation.

Paying for your test

Self-paying: If you are paying for this test yourself and not through insurance, the cost will be £1,060.

This cost includes the oesophageal manometry, analysis and report.

Insurance coverage

If you have private medical insurance, most companies can cover this for you.

After the Test (Post-Procedure Care)

After the test you can restart any medication and continue your everyday activities as usual.

Your results will be sent to a specialist for investigation, and you will get your detailed results at your next appointment with your consultant, who will discuss the outcome and all treatment solutions.