Bravo Capsule is a test that helps your doctor determine the source of chronic heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease, by measuring pH levels in your esophagus. It’s a new, catheter-free pH monitoring system that allows you to have a normal diet and maintain regular activities without the hassle of other catheter pH monitoring systems.

The Procedure

A miniature pH capsule is attached to the wall of your esophagus as part of an upper endoscopy procedure, which takes continuous pH measurements for up to 48 hours and transmits that information to a small receiver you wear on your waistband. You’ll be asked to keep journal tracking your episodes of heartburn. When the testing period is over, information from the receiver is uploaded to a computer for analysis. Your doctor will compare your journal with the information from the Bravo receiver to determine the right treatment for you. The disposable pH capsule will spontaneously detach and harmlessly pass through your digestive system after several days.

Risks

All pH testing procedures carry some risks. Potential complications from using the Bravo Capsule include the possibility of premature detachment of the pH capsule, failure of the pH capsule to detach from the esophagus within several days after placement, or discomfort associated with the pH capsule, requiring endoscopic removal. More serious complications might include perforation, or tears in the mucosal and submucosal layers of the esophagus that causes bleeding and could require medical intervention.

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