Esophageal pH monitoring: Difference between revisions
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= Esophageal pH Monitoring = | |||
[[File: | [[File:PH-zond_for_gastroenterology.jpg|thumb|right|A pH probe used in esophageal pH monitoring]] | ||
'''Esophageal pH monitoring''' is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the pH or acidity level in the [[esophagus]] over a 24-hour period. This test is primarily used to diagnose [[gastroesophageal reflux disease]] (GERD) and to evaluate the effectiveness of medications that prevent acid reflux. | '''Esophageal pH monitoring''' is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the pH or acidity level in the [[esophagus]] over a 24-hour period. This test is primarily used to diagnose [[gastroesophageal reflux disease]] (GERD) and to evaluate the effectiveness of medications that prevent acid reflux. | ||
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== Procedure == | == Procedure == | ||
The procedure involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube through the nose and into the esophagus. This tube, known as a | The procedure involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube through the [[nose]] and into the esophagus. This tube, known as a pH probe, is equipped with a sensor that measures the pH level. The probe is connected to a small recording device worn on the patient's belt or shoulder. | ||
[[File:Bravo_tracing.jpg|thumb|left|Bravo pH monitoring system tracing]] | |||
In some cases, a wireless pH monitoring system, such as the Bravo system, may be used. This involves attaching a small capsule to the lining of the esophagus during an [[endoscopy]]. The capsule transmits pH data to a receiver worn by the patient. | |||
== Indications == | == Indications == | ||
Esophageal pH monitoring is indicated for patients who: | Esophageal pH monitoring is indicated for patients who: | ||
* Have symptoms of GERD that do not respond to treatment | |||
* Are being considered for [[antireflux surgery]] | |||
* Have atypical symptoms such as [[chronic cough]], [[laryngitis]], or [[asthma]] suspected to be related to acid reflux | |||
== Interpretation of Results == | |||
The data collected from the pH probe is analyzed to determine the frequency and duration of acid reflux episodes. The DeMeester score is a commonly used metric to quantify acid exposure in the esophagus. | |||
[[File:TRDeMeester.jpg|thumb|right|Dr. Tom R. DeMeester, developer of the DeMeester score]] | |||
The | The DeMeester score takes into account several factors, including the total time the pH is below 4, the number of reflux episodes, and the duration of the longest episode. A score above a certain threshold indicates abnormal acid exposure. | ||
== Complications == | == Complications == | ||
Esophageal pH monitoring is generally safe, but some patients may experience discomfort from the probe. Rare complications include [[nasal bleeding]], [[sore throat]], or [[esophageal perforation]]. | |||
== Related Pages == | == Related Pages == | ||
* [[Gastroesophageal reflux disease]] | * [[Gastroesophageal reflux disease]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Endoscopy]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Antireflux surgery]] | ||
* [[ | * [[DeMeester score]] | ||
[[Category:Gastroenterology]] | |||
[[Category:Medical tests]] | [[Category:Medical tests]] | ||
Revision as of 14:11, 21 February 2025
Esophageal pH Monitoring
Esophageal pH monitoring is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the pH or acidity level in the esophagus over a 24-hour period. This test is primarily used to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and to evaluate the effectiveness of medications that prevent acid reflux.
Procedure
The procedure involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube through the nose and into the esophagus. This tube, known as a pH probe, is equipped with a sensor that measures the pH level. The probe is connected to a small recording device worn on the patient's belt or shoulder.
In some cases, a wireless pH monitoring system, such as the Bravo system, may be used. This involves attaching a small capsule to the lining of the esophagus during an endoscopy. The capsule transmits pH data to a receiver worn by the patient.
Indications
Esophageal pH monitoring is indicated for patients who:
- Have symptoms of GERD that do not respond to treatment
- Are being considered for antireflux surgery
- Have atypical symptoms such as chronic cough, laryngitis, or asthma suspected to be related to acid reflux
Interpretation of Results
The data collected from the pH probe is analyzed to determine the frequency and duration of acid reflux episodes. The DeMeester score is a commonly used metric to quantify acid exposure in the esophagus.
The DeMeester score takes into account several factors, including the total time the pH is below 4, the number of reflux episodes, and the duration of the longest episode. A score above a certain threshold indicates abnormal acid exposure.
Complications
Esophageal pH monitoring is generally safe, but some patients may experience discomfort from the probe. Rare complications include nasal bleeding, sore throat, or esophageal perforation.
