title: The sphinctometer: a new device for measurement of lower oesophageal sphincter function.
abstract: Current evidence suggests that lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) competence depends upon both pressure and length. Existing devices can measure length and pressure, but not simultaneously. This methodological problem is a fundamental drawback to understanding LOS function and its role in oesophageal disease. A 'sphinctometer' has been developed, consisting of an oil-filled 3-mm diameter Silastic chamber, 6 cm in length, incorporating a pressure microtransducer designed to provide an integrated pressure reading as a function of length. Its performance has been tested in vitro using human cadaver oesophagus in a specially constructed chamber in which sphincter length and pressure can be varied independently. Comparisons were made with a conventional pull-through technique. Sphinctometer response was linear throughout the LOS pressure range of 0 to 50 mmHg at a fixed LOS length (RS = 0.99; P less than 0.001). Sphinctometer response was also linear at fixed LOS pressure for sphincter lengths from 1 to 6 cm (RS = 0.99; P less than 0.001). This device thus appeared suitable for monitoring function of the human LOS, and has subsequently been successfully incorporated into an ambulatory system for patient use.
authors.affiliation: University Department of Surgery, Bristol Royal Infirmary, UK.
authors.forename: D C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Gotley
authors.forename: C P
authors.initials: CP
authors.lastname: Barham
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Miller
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Arnold
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Alderson
mesh_terms: D001699:Biometry / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004943:Esophagogastric Junction / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D008365:Manometry / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008991:Monitoring, Physiologic