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2630 Grant Line Road
New Albany, IN 47150
Phone:
812-945-0145
Fax: 812-949-5435
825 University Woods
Drive, Ste. 2
New Albany, IN 47150
Phone:
812-945-0145
Fax: 812-949-5443
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The doctors of Gastroenterology of Southern Indiana must often perform
routine procedures for the evaluation and treatment of many digestive tract
problems. The information below is meant as a reference only and should
not be used as diagnostic treatment.
Bravo Probe
(48 hour pH testing)
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General information
The Bravo pH Monitoring System is a catheter-free way to measure pH.
The Bravo system involves a pH capsule, about the size of a gel cap,
that is temporarily attached
to the wall of the esophagus. The Bravo pH Capsule measures pH levels in
the esophagus and transmits readings via radio telemetry to the Bravo
Receiver worn on the patient's belt or
waistband. The patient also records symptoms he or she experiences in a
diary by pressing buttons on the receiver. The Bravo pH capsule collects
pH measurements for up to 48 hours. After the study, data from the
receiver is uploaded to a computer and diary information is entered for
analysis to aid in the diagnosis and plan treatment. Normal patient
activities such as swallowing, eating and drinking should cause the
disposable pH capsule to detach and pass through the digestive tract in
5-7 days on average. |
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Reasons for exam
The pH test is useful for evaluating patients with acid reflux. The test
was originally designed t o
evaluate patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. It has since
been modified to evaluate patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux
disease. The test is currently the best method available to monitor acid
exposure within the esophagus and voice box.
Preparation for the exam
The pH test is useful for evaluating patients with acid
reflux. The test was originally designed to evaluate patients with
gastroesophageal reflux disease. It has since been modified to evaluate
patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux disease. The test is currently
the best method available to monitor acid exposure within the esophagus
and voice box. Once in the procedure room,
you will be asked to lie on an exam table. One of the nostrils will be
numbed with lidocaine. The nurse will then place a thin catheter into
the nostril. As the catheter is advanced into the esophagus, you will be
asked to swallow to help open up the esophagus. Once the catheter is in
appropriate position it will be connected to the recorder. Overall, the
exam will take approximately 15-30 minutes.
Because there is no sedation for the exam, you will be allowed to leave
the endoscopy unit as soon as you are finished. Most patients are able
to eat and drink normally after their discharge from the endoscopy unit,
however, specific instructions regarding activity, eating, and
medications will be given to the patient prior to discharge.
Because the probe measures the pH of the esophagus for 24 hours, you
will need to return to the endoscopy unit the following day to have the
pH probe removed.
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Equipment
The doctor uses the Bravo Delivery System to insert the pH capsule
through the mouth or nose and position it above the lower esophageal
sphincter. Once the pH capsule is in place, suction is applied, drawing
a small amount of esophageal tissue into the capsule and locking it in
place. The delivery system is then withdrawn and the pH capsule can
begin measuring pH levels. |
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Benefits
The Bravo pH system is convenient and provides comfort. The data is
recorded when the capsule and receiver are within 9 feet of each other.
You can bathe and sleep without the receiver interrupting your daily
routine.
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Risks & side effects
The 48 hour pH probe is a very safe procedure. Complications occur in
less than 1% of patients. Most complications are not life-threatening,
however, if a complication occurs, it may require hospitalization and
surgery. Prior to the exam, a consent form will be reviewed with the
patient by the nursing staff.
Perforation or puncture of the esophagus is a very uncommon
complication, but can occur. This may be recognized at the time of the
exam, or it may not be apparent until later in the day. In most cases, a
perforation will require a surgery and hospitalization.
Patients can develop chest pain after the monitor is attached. This does
not occur in the majority of patients, but if it does, pain medications
will be provided. |
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