The Council on Functional GI Disorders conducted a workshop on high-resolution esophageal manometry and pH impedance testing on September 20-21, 2019 at Novotel, Quezon City. The workshop aimed to impart basic knowledge on esophageal motility and pH impedance testing. The workshop was supported by Laborie Medical Technologies, manufacturer of the Solar GI high-resolution manometry system and its local distributor, Medtronix Medical Supplies and Equipment.
Slots for the workshop were limited. A total of 48 gastroenterologists registered led by Philippine Society of Gastroenterology (PSG) president Dr. Felipe Gozar L. Duque and Hepatology Society of the Philippines (HSP) president Dr. Arlinking K. Ong-Go and fellows in training.
The council invited one of the Laborie Medical Technologies course directors for training and education, Professor Reuben Wong from the National University of Singapore, to facilitate the workshop and share his expertise in the use of these tests in the diagnosis and management of esophageal motility disorders and GERD. The course program included lectures on the basic principles and indications of high-resolution esophageal manometry by Dr. Sherrie Querubin- De Ocampo and pH-impedance testing by Dr. Rona Marie Ata-Lawenko. Prof. Wong also gave lectures on the practical and clinical applications of these tests and how they will direct management of esophageal motility disorders and GERD. There were also interactive demonstrations of high-resolution esophageal manometry and 24-hour pH impedance testing on patients with suspected achalasia and refractory GERD. The participants, divided in small groups, were also guided through hands-on practice in the interpretation of these tests using the MMS measurement systems.
The first-of-its-kind workshop was a productive learning experience and the enthusiasm of participants impressed Prof. Wong. The council looks forward to organizing another workshop that will highlight functional GI testing in the diagnosis and management of GI disorders.
