Benefits
The world’s first catheter-free pH test, Bravo provides a more tolerable and convenient way to evaluate your heartburn symptoms when compared to catheter-based pH monitoring systems.1
The capsule is temporarily attached to the wall of your esophagus. The capsule transmits pH information wirelessly to a small receiver worn on your belt or waistband. Data can be transmitted approximately 3 feet, which means you can take the receiver off to shower and sleep without interrupting the test.
Most importantly, a catheter-free test allows you to engage in your usual activities during the test period:
- Eat normally
- Bathe and sleep comfortably
- Maintain your daily life
The Bravo System allows you to perform your normal activities during the pH test, which has the potential to provide a more accurate picture of your acid exposure compared to data collected using catheter-based systems.2
Risks
The Bravo pH test is not for everyone. If you have bleeding diathesis, strictures, severe esophagitis, varices, obstructions, a pacemaker, or an implantable cardiac defibrillator, you should not undergo a Bravo pH test. Additionally, because the capsule contains a small magnet, you should not have an MRI study within 30 days of undergoing the Bravo pH test.
Potential complications associated with gastrointestinal endoscopy include perforation, hemorrhage, aspiration, fever, infection, hypertension, respiratory arrest, and cardiac arrhythmia or arrest.
Potential complications for using the Bravo pH Monitoring System include the following events:
- 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
- Tears in the mucosal and submucosal layers of the esophagus, causing bleeding and requiring possible medical intervention
- Perforation
Potential complications associated with nasal intubation include: sore throat, discomfort, and nasopharyngeal damage resulting in bleeding and soft tissue damage.
References
- 1. Wong WM, Bautista J, Dekel R, et al. Feasibility and tolerability of transnasal / per-oral placement of the wireless pH capsule vs. traditional 24-h oesophageal pH monitoring – a randomized trial. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2005; 21(2): 155-163.
- 2. Hirono I, Richter JE. Practice Parameters Committee of the American College of Gastroenterology. ACG practice guidelines: esophageal reflux testing. Am J Gastroenterol. 2007; 102(3): 668-685.
Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.