American journal of otolaryngology
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Current state of the art methods for esophageal manometry may be performed with either a nonperfused probe with intraluminal transducers or a perfused catheter system. The perfusate should be driven by a low compliance pump through catheters 0.8 mm. in diameter. The upper esophageal sphincter pressure profile is asymmetrical, with higher pressures in the anterior and posterior directions than laterally. ⋯ The discussion of the physiology of swallowing includes the "on" response and the "off" and "duration" response. The lower esophageal sphincter is normally in a state of constant contraction and is relaxed following stimulation of the vagus nerve. The mechanisms of the control of the lower esophageal sphincter remain to be fully demonstrated.