Bravo® pH monitoring is a capsule-based, patient-friendly test for identifying the presence of acid reflux. Information is collected over multiple days, which allows the doctor to evaluate reflux symptoms by determining the frequency and duration of acid flowing back up into the oesophagus. The test is used to confirm if the patient’s symptoms are caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD).

Bravo® pH monitoring is unique because of its catheter-free design. By using a miniature pH capsule attached to the oesophagus, pH data from the oesophagus can be wirelessly transmitted to a small recorder worn on a shoulder strap.

The procedure:

This procedure is performed under anaesthetic during a Gastroscopy in the Cabrini Day Procedure Centre (DPC).

The Bravo® system consists of a small capsule that is temporarily attached to the wall of the oesophagus. The capsule measures the pH levels in the oesophagus and adheres for 48-96 hours, with little to no discomfort. All data is transmitted wirelessly to the monitoring receiver.

Patients with a narrowing or severe irritation of the oesophagus, an unknown obstruction, a pacemaker, or an implantable cardiac defibrillator, should not undergo a Bravo pH study.

Patients please note: The Bravo® capsule contains a small magnet; therefore you must wait at least 30 days before undergoing a Magnetic Resonance Imaging examination or be near a MRI or similarly high powered magnetic device.

Patient preparation:

Prior to procedure:

• Complete the Cabrini admission paperwork & Consent form and post it to:
  Cabrini Hospital - 183 Wattletree Road, Malvern 3144

5 Days prior to procedure:

• Several (acid-blocking) medications alter the pH level of the stomach and must be discontinued unless otherwise instructed; all other usual medications may be continued.
  • Losec® (Omeprazole)
  • Pariet® (Rabeprazole)
  • Somac® (Pantoprazole)
  • Nexium® (Esompeprazole)
  • Zoton® (Lansoprazole)
  • Zantac® (Ranitidine)
  • Pepcidine® (Famotidine)
  • Tazac® (Nizatidine)

24 hours prior to procedure:

• Stop taking all “over-the-counter” antacids.

Day of the procedure:

• Please fast - nothing to eat or drink on the morning of your appointment.