Bravo pH monitoring is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the amount of acid reflux in the esophagus over a 48- or 96-hour period. The procedure involves inserting a small, wireless capsule into the esophagus through an endoscope. The capsule contains a pH sensor that measures the acidity of the esophageal lining and wirelessly transmits the data to a receiver worn by the patient. The patient is instructed to keep a diary of their symptoms and activities during the monitoring period to help correlate the pH readings with their experiences. After the monitoring period is complete, the capsule will detach from the esophagus and pass through the digestive tract naturally. Bravo pH monitoring is a useful tool for diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other esophageal disorders. It is particularly helpful in identifying acid reflux that may be missed by other diagnostic tests, such as endoscopy or barium swallow studies. The procedure is generally well-tolerated, but patients may experience some discomfort or difficulty swallowing during the monitoring period. Patients will be instructed to avoid certain foods and medications before and during the monitoring period and may need to abstain from certain activities, such as exercise or sleep medications, to ensure accurate readings. Your doctor can help determine if Bravo pH monitoring is the right option for your individual needs.
