A BRAVO pH study measures reflux using a small capsule attached to the esophagus. It records for multiple days without a nose catheter.
During an endoscopy, a small capsule is attached to the esophagus lining to measure pH. You wear a recorder and continue normal activities while data is collected. The capsule naturally detaches and passes on its own.
Placement is typically done during a sedated endoscopy. Some people notice temporary chest discomfort or a “sticking” sensation. Complications are uncommon, and your team will explain what to watch for.
Preparation is similar to other sedated endoscopy procedures. You’ll be asked not to eat or drink for a set time before the procedure, and your provider will review medications—especially acid-suppressing drugs, blood thinners, and diabetes medicines. You may be told to stop certain reflux medicines several days in advance or to stay on them, depending on the question being asked. Follow your written BRAVO prep instructions carefully.
On the day of the test, you’ll check in for an upper endoscopy. After sedation is started, the endoscope is passed through your mouth into the esophagus and stomach. The capsule is attached to the lower esophagus, and then the scope is removed. You’ll wake up in recovery, go home the same day with a small recorder and symptom diary, and resume normal activities unless instructed otherwise.
Mild chest or throat awareness from the capsule is common at first and usually fades. You’ll eat, drink, sleep, and record symptoms as instructed while the device collects data. After the monitoring period, you’ll return the recorder; the capsule detaches on its own and passes naturally in your stool. You can typically resume all medications and activities as directed once the study is done. Your provider will review the results with you at a follow-up visit.
If your insurance requires a referral or prior authorization, our billing office will make every effort to obtain it before services are rendered. If you choose to proceed without required authorization, insurance may deny coverage. If you are a Medicare patient, you may be asked to sign an Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN) acknowledging financial responsibility if insurance does not pay. If you are enrolled in a commercial insurance plan you will be asked to sign a non-covered services form.