Bravo pH Monitoring

What is the purpose of the test?

To conclusively diagnose acid reflux.

Who gets tested?

People who:

• have suspected GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
• have chronic heartburnhave a great deal of indigestion or burning in the center of their chest.
• regularly get an acid, sour or bitter taste in their mouth.
• unexplainable chest pain

Why is it important to test for and treat acid reflux?

• Damage caused by acid reflux can lead to more serious medical problems such as difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia), narrowing of the esophagus (strictures) or Barrett’s esophagus.
• So that patients aren’t taking medication that they don’t need.

How do you test for acid reflux?

• The traditional way is to insert a probe through the nose and tape it to the side of the patient’s face. The probe is attached to a monitor box that is connected to a belt. Many patients find the probe uncomfortable and are embarrassed to go out in public. Grand Junction Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Center does not perform probe pH studies.
• The Bravo pH monitor is a probe free system that allows minimal interference to normal daily routine. It is a miniature capsule approximately the size of a gelcap that is attached to your esophagus. The capsule transmits information to a pager-sized receiver worn on your belt or waistband.

The patient must stay within a range of approximately 3 feet to maintain contact with the receiver. This allows you to shower, bathe and sleep without receiver interference. The receiver will emit a soft beeping sound if you get out of range. It is important that this not be done frequently during the study to allow sufficient data for analysis. If you do get out of range and hear the beeping sound, simply place the receiver to your chest for a moment to re-establish transmission. Note this in your diary.

How long is the test?

• You will keep the receiver with you for 48 hours from the time it is placed in your esophagus. It records continually during this time. All meal times and reclining/sleep periods must be recorded in your diary.

Please bring your diary with you when you return the receiver.

If you are unable to return the receiver in 48 hours, you will need to reschedule for a different time. Please call 970-684-4808 to reschedule. The Facility does not allow patients to return the receiver by mail.

• You will be instructed as to the time and place you must return the Bravo receiver. It is important that you return it promptly for several reasons:
  • Limited battery life.
  • Other scheduled Bravo procedures.
• The capsule stays in your body for approximately 5-7 days. This time period is individual to each person. It normally dislodges from your esophagus and is eliminated through your bowel movement.
• Patients who have had a Bravo capsule placed must not have an MRI study done within 30 days of the procedure. If the need arises an X-ray should be taken to ensure that the capsule has passed through the GI system.

How is the capsule attached to the esophagus?

• Usually the capsule is placed during an EGD (upper endoscopy) procedure.

Bravo capsule placement in the esophagus

What can I eat during the study?

• Anything you want. Take smaller bites and chew food thoroughly to prevent dislodging the capsule.
• No snacking. Only water between meals.
• Record meal times in your diary.
• You may have juice or an alcoholic beverage during the study; however, it must be during a meal. No sipping between meals.

Preparations for the study

• The patient should fast for 6 hours prior to the procedure.

Your Doctor will determine if you are to take your anti-reflux medication prior to and during the study.

If medications are to be discontinued please note:

• Medications that should be discontinued for at least 5 days prior include:
  All Proton Pump Inhibitors:
  • Prilosec, Prevacid, Aciphex, Protonix, Nexium
• Medications that should be discontinued for at least 24 hours prior include:
  • Antacids, Rolaids, Tums, Mylanta, Maalox, Tagamet, Pepcid, Axid, Zantac, Pepto-Bismol.

None of these medications are to be taken during the 48 hour study unless ordered by your Physician.

Medication Instructions:

• Ask doctor for additional medication instructions

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