pH Study :: Gastro One: Excellence in Digestive Health

pH Study

General Information:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition in which gastric contents, including acid, reflux up into the esophagus from the stomach. In some situations, a pH study is needed to identify the presence of this disease. In this test, a small catheter is placed in the esophagus that can detect the presence of acid within the esophagus. The catheter is attached to a small computer that records the pH (acid content) over a period of time (12-24 hours). A nurse or doctor at a doctor's office, endoscopy center, or hospital places the catheter. A Gastroenterologist interprets the results. The test takes 12-24 hours to complete.
Discomfort - Minimal discomfort associated with placement of the catheter via the nose.
Results - 24-36 hours.
Risks of Procedure - Minimal. Risk of causing bleeding from the nose.
Average Cost - $
Other Names: Ambulatory pH test.

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Indications for the Test

To determine if acid reflux is present to account for symptoms of chest pain or heartburn.
To determine the adequacy of acid suppressing medications in a person with known GERD.

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Preparation

You may be advised to avoid certain medications before or during the test (antacids, acid blocking medications).
You may be advised that nothing should be consumed for 8 hours before the test, except medications as directed by your doctor.

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Procedure

Your throat may be anesthetized prior to placement of the catheter.
While sitting in an upright position, the catheter is guided down the esophagus and secured into position.
Once the catheter is positioned, you are free to return to normal activities.
You are asked to record when you are in an upright position or reclined position, when you eat, or when you sense the occurrence of heartburn/reflux.
After completion of the test period 12-24 hours), you return to have the catheter removed.
The information recorded by the computer is then downloaded into another computer for analysis.

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After the Procedure

Once the catheter is removed, you are free to return to normal activities.

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Factors Affecting Results

It is important to avoid any medications, as advised, during the test in order to get accurate results.
Some diseases may interfere with the proper uptake of the nucleotide, limiting the test.

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Advantages

The test is the gold standard for determining the presence of GERD.
The test can identify the cause of heartburn or chest pain if other tests are non-conclusive.

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Disadvantages