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What is EndoFLIP?

EndoFLIP (endoluminal functional lumen imaging probe) is a newer, minimally invasive type of technology that can be used during endoscopy to measure the dimensions, movement, and pressure inside the esophagus and other organs. The ratio of these measurements is called distensibility, or the ability to stretch under pressure. It also allows an assessment of the motility of the esophagus while the patient is under anesthesia. Our equipment allows us to assess not only the distensibility, but also the presence of peristalsis in a less-invasive way.

The Motility and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders Center at Boston Children’s Hospital is one of the centers that has adapted this technique for children. We are at the forefront of research in this area and continue to publish our findings on the benefits of EndoFLIP technology in children.

Why might my child’s physician recommend EndoFLIP?

Your child’s physician may use EndoFLIP technology during endoscopy. It can help physicians to better evaluate and detect motility problems including esophageal achalasia, swallowing difficulties, and eosinophilic esophagitis. It can also assess esophageal diameter, effectiveness of certain treatments, and continued symptoms after fundoplication, a surgical procedure used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease.

What happens during procedures that use EndoFLIP?

The advantage of the EndoFLIP is that it is performed when the patient is under anesthesia for an endoscopic procedure. It involves placing a small balloon catheter through your child’s mouth and into their stomach. It works by inflating the balloon to assess the function of the esophagus. Your child’s clinician will share the results of the test with you when it is complete.

Practitioners Who Specialize In This Condition

Denis Chang, MD, MS

Denis Chang, MD, MS

Gastroenterologist, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
Instructor of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School
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Aerodigestive Center

The Aerodigestive Center sees children who have trouble swallowing or breathing or who have related gastrointestinal issues in addition to respiratory symptoms.

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