gastrointestinal disorders
Impedance Planimetry
Introduction
(See also Manometry .) Impedance planimetry provides real-time assessment of luminal distensibility and geometric changes in response to applied pressure in various parts of the gastrointestinal tract. A catheter-mounted, balloon-covered probe is placed during a regular endoscopy using sedation and inflated to prespecified pressures. During inflation, pressure sensors along the balloon measure intraluminal pressure and cross-sectional area within a gastrointestinal lumen or sphincter. The measurements are used to calculate a distensibility index (mm2/mm Hg) or compliance of the evaluated area. The newest generation of probes also produces a realtime graphic display of esophageal contractility patterns. Impedance planimetry is used in a variety of gastrointestinal conditions, particularly in the esophagus. This technique can be used to evaluate achalasia and can provide useful diagnostic information where high-resolution manometry is nondiagnostic or if the patient cannot tolerate manometry. Recent guidelines recommend its use in the diagnosis and management of Achalasia ( Another potential use of impedance planimetry is in the diagnosis and management of Eosinophilic Esophagitis . Previous studies have shown decreased esophageal distensibility in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis ( Impedance planimetry has been studied in the evaluation of gastrointestinal disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux disease ( Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) ) and 