OBJECTIVE Manometric findings in achalasia are pathognomic already in early clinical stages of the disease. The authors evaluate the importance of manometry in the diagnosis and therapy, in particular in early stages of the disease. METHODS During manometry we obtain data on the function of the lower oesophageal sphincter and the body of the oesophagus. Impaired relaxation of the sphincter is evaluated, as well as increased tonus of the sphincter and tertiary contraction of the body of the oesophagus. In patients with achalasia we implement laparoscopically extramucous myotomy. RESULTS In 1997 we started a prospective manometric study of dysphagic complaints. We examined 304 patients on account of different diseases of the oesophagus incl. 16(5.2%) where we proved or confirmed achalasia in stage I, II or III according to the radiological classification. These patients were indicated for laparoscopic myotomy. In one instance we had to convert the operation to an open one. In two instances we added partial fundoplasty according to Thal on account of perforation of the oesophageal mucosa. Four patients were subjected after a 5-12-month interval to remyotomy. Twice because of the development of a fibrous stricture at the site of myotomy and twice for an obviously inadequate original myotomy. The history of dysphagia in patients with primary operations was on average 37.3 months. CONCLUSIONS Manometric examination of patients with functional dysphagia makes it possible to detect achalasia in early stages and to indicate in time surgical treatment. In case of a relapse or persistence of complaints manometry makes it possible to express objectively the cause which is most frequently an atonic oesophagus with inadequate evacuating capacity, stricture at the site of myotomy or inadequate myotomy.