Bravo pH Monitoring

The complexities of the human digestive system often require sophisticated tools for precise diagnosis and treatment. One such advanced diagnostic procedure is the Bravo pH Monitoring.

 At Hudson Valley Endoscopy Center, a team of esteemed physicians, including Dr. Ravi Hotchandani, MD, Dr. Arthur Walczyk, MD, Dr. Paul Burrows, MD, Dr. Sameer Dhalla, MD, Dr. Simitar Sinha, MD, and Dr. Michael Steckman, alongside a dedicated medical team, conduct these tests in their state-of-the-art outpatient facility, bringing their expertise to the forefront of gastrointestinal care.

The Bravo pH Monitoring System is a test used to measure the level of acidity (pH) in your esophagus for a prolonged period, typically 48 hours, aiding in diagnosing conditions like GERD.

Why Bravo is Needed
The Bravo test is employed when a patient showcases symptoms of GERD but conventional tests, such as endoscopy, yield inconclusive results. Symptoms might encompass heartburn, chest pain, coughing, difficulty swallowing, or the sensation of a lump in the throat.

Indications
Chronic heartburn, cough, uncontrollable asthma, chest pain of unidentified origin, or laryngitis are primary indications for this monitoring system.

How Bravo pH Monitoring Works   

A minute pH sensor or capsule is affixed to the esophagus lining during this procedure.

• This capsule wirelessly transmits data to an external recorder, worn on the belt or waistband, over 48 hours.
• Patients should maintain their regular diet and activities during monitoring for accurate representation.

What it Detects
The system measures and records esophageal pH levels, allowing doctors to evaluate acid reflux events and their duration.

Risks

Although rare, potential risks encompass:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Tissue damage
• Premature detachment of the Bravo capsule
• Temporary difficulty swallowing or chest discomfort
• Capsule retention in rare cases (it usually passes naturally within a week)

Preparation
Patients usually fast overnight before the procedure and may halt certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, and antacids.

Post-Procedure

• Data from the recorder is computer-analyzed post-test.
• The Bravo capsule naturally detaches and exits via the stool, requiring no retrieval.

Benefits Over Traditional pH Monitoring

• Eliminates the discomfort of a nasal tube.
• Longer, 48-hour monitoring period versus the traditional 24-hour window, ensuring a broader reflux detection window.

Limitations of Bravo pH Monitoring

• Not suitable for all; those with esophageal varices or strictures might be ineligible.
• There's a slight risk of premature capsule dislodgement.

Why Choose Hudson Valley Endoscopy Center?

• Expertise: Board-certified gastroenterologists with a specialty in endoscopic procedures.
• Advanced Tech: Access to the newest endoscopic technologies.
• Personalized Care: Tailored treatments ensure each patient feels valued.
• Ease of Booking: Convenient online and phone booking.
• Affordability: Premium services at competitive rates.
• Quick Recovery: Minimally invasive techniques for a swift bounce-back.
• Confidence: 98% of patients vouch to choose us again.
• Accreditation: AAAHC certification, indicating top-tier standards.
• Safety: Rigorous patient safety measures upheld.
• Teamwork: Integrated medical team communication for expedited treatments.
• Comfort: A serene, stress-free ambiance for patients.
• Accessibility: Hassle-free online appointment booking with certified gastroenterologists.

Choose Health, Choose Comfort
Prioritize your well-being. Opt for Hudson Valley Endoscopy Center or Northern Medical Group – where patients are treated like family.