Esophageal Manometry, pH Testing, Endoscopy, and Videofluoroscopy in Patients With Globus Sensation

Objectives/Hypothesis Combine techniques commonly employed in the clinical workup of patients with isolated globus sensation to identify the most common pharyngoesophageal abnormality. The primary aim was to retrospectively review high‐resolution manometry, pH probe testing, contrast videofluoroscopy, and endoscopy studies in patients with a primary complaint of globus sensation. The specific hypothesis was esophageal high‐resolution manometry identifies the most significant proportion of abnormalities compared to all other modalities. Study Design Retrospective cohort study. Methods An inclusive retrospective chart review was performed for patients evaluated between 2009 and 2016 with the primary complaint of globus sensation. Age at testing, self‐identified gender, associated diagnoses, and results from each modality were collected. Descriptive statistics and pairwise comparisons were performed as well as sensitivity and specificity calculations. Results One hundred seventy‐two patients met inclusion criteria. The cohort had an age range of 22.7 to 88.5 years and was predominantly female. Esophageal manometry identified abnormalities in 62.8% of patients, and pH testing identified abnormal acidification in approximately 20%. The esophagram identified abnormalities in 24% of patients, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy identified abnormalities in 22%. Modified barium swallows were normal in 93% of patients. Measures of sensitivity and specificity of other modalities were poor compared to esophageal manometry and pH testing. Conclusions Patients with isolated globus sensation have evidence of esophageal dysmotility and laryngopharyngeal and gastroesophageal reflux disease in high proportions. Esophageal high‐resolution manometry testing identifies the greatest proportion of abnormalities of the investigated modalities. Level of Evidence 4 Laryngoscope , 130:2120–2125, 2020