Bravo pH Monitoring
NCH gastroenterologists use the wireless Bravo pH monitoring system to measure acid levels in the esophagus over 48–96 hours — helping diagnose and manage GERD without an uncomfortable nasal catheter.
What Is Bravo pH Monitoring?
Bravo pH monitoring is a test that measures how often and how much stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. A small, wireless capsule — about the size of a gel cap — is temporarily attached to the lining of the lower esophagus during an upper endoscopy (EGD). The capsule contains a tiny battery, an acid sensor, and a transmitter.
Once placed, the capsule wirelessly sends pH readings to a small receiver you wear on your waistband. Because there’s no catheter running through the nose and throat, most patients find the Bravo test more comfortable than traditional 24-hour catheter-based pH monitoring — and it collects data for a longer period, typically 48 to 96 hours, giving your physician a fuller picture of your acid reflux pattern.
The capsule detaches on its own within about 7 to 10 days and passes naturally through the digestive tract, so no removal procedure is needed.
Why Is Bravo pH Monitoring Performed?
Your gastroenterologist may recommend Bravo pH monitoring to confirm a GERD diagnosis or evaluate ongoing reflux symptoms.
Persistent Heartburn or Regurgitation
Symptoms that continue despite taking acid-reducing medication as directed.
Confirming a GERD Diagnosis
Determining whether reflux is truly the cause of your symptoms before starting long-term treatment.
Evaluating Medication Effectiveness
Checking whether your current GERD treatment is adequately controlling acid exposure.
Atypical Reflux Symptoms
Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Ruling Out Acid Reflux
Not every patient with reflux symptoms needs pH monitoring. Your gastroenterologist will review your symptoms, prior testing, and treatment history to decide whether Bravo monitoring, another diagnostic test, or a change in treatment is the right next step for you.
Your Procedure Journey
From referral through results, here’s what to expect at each stage.
Consultation & Scheduling
Symptom and medication review; instructions sent ahead of your procedure.
Preparation
Fasting and medication hold instructions before sedation.
Capsule Placement
Monitoring Period
Wear the receiver and log meals, symptoms, and activity for 48–96 hours.
Results & Follow-Up
Return the receiver; your physician reviews the data with you.
Contact your care team promptly for severe or worsening chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or if the capsule sensation does not improve. Avoid MRI scans for 30 days after capsule placement.
Is This the Right Test for You?
Bravo pH monitoring and traditional catheter pH testing both measure acid reflux, but differ in comfort, duration, and how they’re worn.
| Bravo Wireless pH Monitoring | Traditional Catheter pH Monitoring | |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Wireless capsule attached to the esophagus during endoscopy | Thin catheter passed through the nose into the esophagus |
| Monitoring duration | 48–96 hours | Typically 24 hours |
| Comfort | No external tube; most patients resume normal activity | Catheter remains in the nose and throat throughout testing |
| Placement | Requires a brief endoscopy under sedation | Placed at the bedside without sedation |
Risks & Safety
Bravo pH monitoring is generally safe. As with any endoscopic procedure, there are some risks to be aware of.
Capsule Attachment Issues
Rarely, the capsule may detach early or fail to detach on its own as expected.
Chest Discomfort
A sensation of pressure or discomfort at the attachment site, especially when swallowing, is common and usually mild.
Bleeding or Tissue Injury
Minor bleeding or injury to the esophageal lining is uncommon but possible with any endoscopic procedure.
Sedation-Related Risks
Standard sedation risks apply, as with any endoscopy; your team will review your health history beforehand.
Do not stop or adjust any medication without your physician’s guidance. Your care team will tell you exactly which medications to pause and for how long before your test.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bravo pH monitoring?
Bravo pH monitoring is a test that uses a small wireless capsule, placed in the esophagus during an endoscopy, to measure acid reflux over 48 to 96 hours and help diagnose or manage GERD.
How is the Bravo capsule placed?
The capsule is attached to the lining of the lower esophagus during a standard upper endoscopy performed under sedation. Placement typically adds only a few minutes to the procedure.
Is the Bravo pH test painful?
You won’t feel the capsule being placed, since you’re sedated. Afterward, some patients notice a mild pressure sensation in the chest, especially when swallowing, which is usually mild and temporary.
How long do I wear the receiver?
Typically 48 to 96 hours, depending on what your physician orders. You’ll log your meals, activity, and symptoms during this time.
What happens to the capsule afterward?
The capsule detaches on its own within about 7 to 10 days and passes naturally through your digestive tract. No retrieval procedure is needed.
Can I do normal activities during the test?
Yes, most patients continue their normal daily activities while wearing the receiver, though your physician may ask you to avoid certain activities like swimming.
What are the risks of Bravo pH monitoring?
Risks are uncommon and include chest discomfort, the capsule detaching earlier or later than expected, and rare bleeding or injury to the esophagus. Your physician will review your specific risks before the procedure.
How do I get my results?
After you return the receiver, your physician downloads and reviews the data, then discusses your results and next steps with you at a follow-up visit.
Location
Bravo pH monitoring is performed at NCH Gastroenterology outpatient locations.
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3302 Bonita Beach Rd Se, Suite 170, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
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(239) 624-1050
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Schedule Your Bravo pH Monitoring Consultation
Talk with an NCH gastroenterologist about whether Bravo pH monitoring is right for you.