[Normal and abnormal gastrointestinal motility].

Abstract

BASIC REMARKS: For the diagnostic evaluation of gastrointestinal disorders of motility and function, there is a growing number of examination procedures available which, after excluding organic disease, are usually capable of differentiating the underlying problem. MAIN POINTS DISCUSSED: Arranged in accordance with the disorders of the various segments of the gastrointestinal tract, the major procedures together with their suitability for the establishment of the respective clinical problem presenting are discussed. On account of the considerable expenditure involved, however, the indication for a diagnostic evaluation of function needs to be established on a very stringent basis and, as a rule, is given only when tentative symptomatic treatment has failed. Exceptions are non-cardiac chest pain, achalasia and fecal incontinence, in which, owing to the usually severe nature of the illness, an etiological clarification and appropriate therapy are a must.