Bravo pH Probe
What is the Bravo™ pH Monitoring System?
The Bravo™ pH Monitoring System is a catheter-free way to measure pH.
The Bravo system involves a pH capsule, about the size of a gel cap, that is
temporarily attached to the wall of the esophagus. The Bravo™ pH Capsule
measures pH levels in the esophagus and transmits readings via radio telemetry
to the Bravo™ Receiver worn on the patient’s belt or waistband. The patient also
records symptoms he or she experiences in a diary by pressing buttons on the
receiver. The Bravo pH capsule collects pH measurements for up to 48 hours.
After the study, data from the receiver is uploaded to a computer and diary
information is entered for analysis to aid in the diagnosis and plan treatment.
Normal patient activities such as swallowing, eating and drinking should cause
the disposable pH capsule to detach and pass through the digestive tract in 5-7
days on average.
Learn more about the Bravo system > (pdf file)
How is the Bravo pH capsule attached to
the esophagus?
The doctor uses the Bravo™ Delivery System to insert the pH capsule through the
mouth or nose and position it above the lower esophageal sphincter. Once the pH
capsule is in place, suction is applied, drawing a small amount of esophageal
tissue into the capsule and locking it in place. The delivery system is then
withdrawn and the pH capsule can begin measuring pH levels.
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