pH-metry gives a detailed look at how often and how severely acid backs up into your esophagus, so your doctor can create a targeted, effective treatment plan.

 

A pH study is a diagnostic test used to measure the acidity level (pH) of the esophagus. Esophageal reflux is a condition in which stomach acid moves back into the esophagus This test is commonly conducted to evaluate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and its severity and also to determine the effectiveness of medications or surgical treatment for GERD.

 

Before the pH study, you may need to stop certain medications (specially any acid-suppressing medicines such as proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers) to ensure accurate results and you will need to be fasting for a period of time.

 

The pH testing can be done in 2 different ways. One is through a pH probe with a sensor device that is inserted through your nose, or the second way is through a wireless pH capsule that needs to be attached to your esophagus through endoscopy.

 

For the pH probe, during the procedure, a small-thin, flexible tube with a pH sensor at its tip is inserted through the nose and positioned in the lower part of the esophagus. The probe is secured in place to the side of your face with clear tape and is connected to a portable recorder that is worn on your belt and tracks pH levels over a period of time. The pH probe typically remains in place for 24 to 48 hours, during which time you will be asked to carry on with your normal activities, including eating and sleeping. You may also be instructed to keep a diary of your activities and symptoms during this time.

 

Once the recording period is complete, the pH probe will be gently removed by a healthcare professional, and the data collected will be analyzed to assess the frequency, duration, and severity of acid reflux episodes.

 

Regarding the wireless pH capsule, this consists on a small capsule about the size of a gel capsule that is attached to the lining of your esophagus during and upper endoscopy or gastroscopy. This procedure is typically done with conscious sedation. Once the capsule is in place, it starts measuring the pH levels in your esophagus. The capsule communicates wirelessly with a small receiver that you wear on your waist or shoulder. This receiver records the pH data continuously over the monitoring period.

 

As mentioned for the pH probe, you will be asked to continue performing your normal activities (except driving for 24hrs due to the sedative that you received for the gastroscopy) and you will need to keep a diary of your activities and any symptoms you experience during this time, as this information will help your healthcare provider interpret the pH data.

 

After about 48-96 hours (2 to4 days), the capsule naturally detaches from the esophageal lining and passes through your digestive tract (sometimes can take up to 15 days).

 

The pH data collected by the pH probe or the wireless capsule is downloaded from the receiver and analyzed by your doctor. This information helps your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Both test are generally well-tolerated by patients with minimal disruption to daily activities.