Minimally Invasive Gastroenterology Monitoring
Bravo pH Study
If you have been experiencing certain stomach symptoms, you may have been referred to San Jose Gastroenterology for a Bravo pH study. A Bravo pH test is a minimally invasive test that can help diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or heartburn. Data is collected over 48 hours. This allows the gastroenterologist to provide an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.
How the Bravo pH Test Works
The Bravo pH Test begins with a preparatory phase where you’ll be instructed to fast and possibly discontinue certain medications that can affect the results. At the healthcare facility, you’ll be given a mild sedative through an intravenous line to help you relax. During the procedure, an endoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera—is gently inserted through your mouth and into your esophagus. This allows the doctor to visually place a small capsule, about the size of a large pill, onto the esophageal lining. The capsule, which contains a tiny pH sensor, is attached to the esophageal wall using a small clip.
Once the capsule is in place, you’ll wear a small external device that records the pH data from the capsule. This device, typically worn on a belt or strap, will collect information on acid levels in your esophagus for the next 48 hours. During this time, you are encouraged to go about your normal daily activities and keep a diary of your meals and any symptoms you experience. This data collection period is crucial for obtaining accurate results about your esophageal acid exposure.
After the monitoring period, the Bravo pH capsule naturally detaches and passes out of your body through your digestive system, usually without any noticeable discomfort. There’s no need for a procedure to remove it. You will then have a follow-up appointment with your doctor to review the recorded data and discuss the results.
- Follow Pre-Test Instructions Carefully
- Wear Comfortable Clothing
- During the 48-hour monitoring period, continue with your usual diet and daily activities
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the test period.
- If you experience any minor discomfort, such as a sore throat from the endoscopy, it is usually temporary and should resolve quickly
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bravo pH capsule is typically worn for 48 hours. During this time, it continuously measures and records the acid levels in your esophagus. After the monitoring period, the capsule naturally falls off and is passed out of your body without any need for removal.
Before the test, you may be instructed to avoid certain medications, particularly antacids and proton pump inhibitors, as they can affect the results. After the test, you should follow any specific dietary or activity recommendations given by your doctor. It’s important to maintain a normal diet and lifestyle during the test to ensure accurate results.
The procedure to place the Bravo pH capsule is usually well-tolerated with minimal discomfort. The endoscopy is performed under mild sedation, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some patients may experience a mild sore throat or discomfort after the procedure, but these symptoms typically resolve quickly. If you have any concerns or experience significant discomfort, you should contact your healthcare provider.
