Esophageal pH Monitoring (Bravo wireless capsule-based)
Performed at Digestive Health – Southwest Endoscopy
Prolonged monitoring of lower esophageal acid levels is most often used to confirm a diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease when the diagnosis is suspected but uncertain (such as when a patient fails to respond to generally effective treatment), or when surgical treatment is being considered. Proton pump inhibitor medication (PPI) are commonly discontinued 7 days before testing (though in some cases your doctor may perform this test without suspending treatment). Endoscopic examination precedes Bravo capsule placement for localization of anatomic landmarks. The monitoring capsule is attached to the wall of the esophagus 6 cm above the junction of the esophagus and stomach. The capsule then transmits measurements of acid exposure to an external recorder for a 48 hour period. The capsule eventually dislodges and passes out of the body spontaneously. No nasal catheter is necessary for this form of pH monitoring. We recommend that you follow your normal dietary and activity routine during the course of monitoring.
What is the Bravo pH monitoring system?
What are the benefits and risks of Bravo pH monitoring?
Preparation
-Preparation for placement of the monitoring capsule are generally the same as for routine upper endoscopy (EGD)
-Discontinue proton pump inhibitors (Prilosec®, Zegerid® or omeprazole; Nexium® or esomeprazole, Prevacid® or lansoprazole, Aciphex® or rabeprazole, Protonix® or pantoprazole, Dexilant® or dexlansoprazole) 7 days before testing.
-Discontinue H2 antagonists (Tagamet®, Zegerid® or cimetidine, Zantac® or ranitidine, Pepcid® or famotidine, Axid® or nizatidine) 3 days before your procedure.
-You may consume only clear liquids after midnight.
-All fluid intake must be discontinued 2 hours before the procedure.