Why It’s Necessary: Do you experience frequent heartburn, regurgitation, or chest pain that isn’t related to your heart? A Bravo pH Study is the most effective way to confirm if your symptoms are caused by GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Unlike a simple questionnaire, this test measures the actual amount of acid reflux that occurs in your esophagus over 48 hours, giving us a clear and precise picture of your condition in your real-life environment. This data is crucial for determining if you need medication, dietary changes, or a more advanced treatment plan.

How It’s Done: This procedure is minimally invasive and much more comfortable than older methods. A tiny, pill-sized capsule is attached to the wall of your esophagus during a brief, pain-free endoscopic procedure. The capsule is so small you won’t even feel it. For the next 48 hours, as you eat, drink, and go about your daily life, the capsule wirelessly transmits data about your esophagus’s acid levels to a small receiver you wear on your belt or waistband. We’ll also ask you to keep a simple diary to log your meals and any symptoms you experience.

Precautions: Before the procedure, we’ll provide you with specific instructions, including when to stop eating and drinking. After the capsule is placed, you’re free to go home. You can eat and drink as you normally would, but it’s important to keep your receiver and diary with you so we get an accurate reading. The capsule will naturally detach and pass through your digestive system after a few days, so there’s no need for a follow-up visit to remove it.