Gastroenterology

Bravo pH System

The Revolutionary Bravo pH System Performs to Rave Reviews

Patients who experience acid reflux problems are coming to Scott & White for a test that’s not available anywhere else in Central Texas.

The Bravo pH system has revolutionized pH testing. This kind of testing has traditionally been done with a transnasal catheter system, which can restrict a person’s diet because it is uncomfortable, and the visible nasal catheter often keeps patients at home.

While the traditional catheter method is uncomfortable and even embarrassing, the Bravo pH allows patients to follow their regular diet and activities during the 48-hour monitoring cycle. The monitoring cycle, which is longer than traditional methods, also gives physicians more information to help determine treatment.

In the Bravo pH procedure, a gelcap–sized capsule is placed on the esophagus, usually during endoscopy. The capsule, which monitors stomach acid, transmits data to a receiver the size of a pager or a small cell phone. Patients clip the receiver to a belt or pocket during the course of the test.

Because the test allows patients to pursue their usual diet and activities, the results obtained are more representative of a person’s typical day. The capsule naturally detaches from the esophagus and passes easily through the patient’s body. When the test is complete, data from the receiver are uploaded to a computer. The information is analyzed to aid in the diagnosis and patient treatment plan.

Back to Top