Bravo PH Monitoring Specialist

Advanced GI LLC

Gastroenterologists located in Chicago, IL

If you have chronic heartburn, chest pain, or a sore throat because of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Bravo™ pH monitoring can provide valuable information about its cause. At Advanced GI LLC in the Lake View neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, Michael Flicker, MD, and Carl Atallah, DO, use the advanced Bravo pH monitoring system to ensure you receive the right treatment to resolve your symptoms for good. To find out if you’re a candidate for Bravo pH monitoring, call Advanced GI LLC, or book an appointment online today.

Bravo pH Monitoring Q&A

What is Bravo pH monitoring?

Bravo pH monitoring is a minimally invasive reflux diagnostic system that can confirm GERD and its cause. The in-office procedure requires no surgery and involves swallowing a small capsule that contains an acid sensor.

Your provider guides the capsule into your stomach using a flexible catheter. Once in place, they remove the catheter, and the sensor begins recording information about the acids in your stomach.

To keep you comfortable and relaxed, you receive a sedative medication before the sensor capsule placement. However, you can expect to go home after your appointment is over.

How long does the Bravo pH monitoring system record information?

The results of your Bravo pH monitoring test provides the gastroenterology team with information about your gastrointestinal health. This data includes details about the frequency and duration of acid reflux.

You can expect the recording to go on for up to 48 hours. The capsule separates from the sensor naturally, and you’ll then pass the capsule in your stool. Your provider can retrieve the sensor during your follow-up appointment.

While the system is recording information, you should be able to participate in your usual activities. Your provider may ask you to limit strenuous exercise during your diagnostic evaluation to ensure accurate results.

How do I prepare for Bravo pH monitoring?

To get you ready for your Bravo pH monitoring procedure, your provider recommends not eating or drinking for at least eight hours before your appointment. They may also request that you alter your medication schedule in the days leading up to your appointment.

After your procedure, you will need to have someone drive you home because of the sedative. The team reviews the test results and determine if you need additional diagnostic evaluations, such as an upper endoscopy, to identify acid reflux damage.

If you need treatment for GERD, they can discuss the options for controlling stomach acids with medications or other therapies to preserve the long-term health of your gastrointestinal tract.

To see if Bravo pH monitoring is right for you, call Advanced GI LLC or book a consultation online today.

What we offer