Benefits
The world’s first catheter-free pH test, Bravo provides a more tolerable and convenient way to evaluate heartburn symptoms when compared to catheter-based pH monitoring systems.

The capsule is temporarily attached to the wall of the oesophagus. The capsule transmits pH information wirelessly to a small receiver worn on the belt or waistband. Data can be transmitted approximately 3 feet, which means the receiver can be taken off to shower and sleep without interrupting the test.

Most importantly, a catheter-free test allows patients to engage in their usual activities during the test period:

• Eat normally
• Bathe and sleep comfortably
• Maintain your daily life and routines which often contribute to their symptoms.

The Bravo System allows patients to perform their normal activities during the pH test, which has the potential to provide a more accurate picture of their acid exposure compared to data collected using catheter-based systems.

Risks
The Bravo pH test is not for everyone. If symptoms include bleeding diathesis, strictures, severe oesophagitis, varices, obstructions, a pacemaker, or an implantable cardiac defibrillator, patients should not undergo a Bravo pH test. Additionally, because the capsule contains a small magnet, patients should not have an MRI study within 30 days of undergoing the Bravo pH test.

References
Wong WM, Bautista J, Dekel R, et al. Feasibility and tolerability of transnasal / per-oral placement of the wireless pH capsule vs. traditional 24-h oesophageal pH monitoring – a randomized trial. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2005; 21(2): 155-163.

Hirono I, Richter JE. Practice Parameters Committee of the American College of Gastroenterology. ACG practice guidelines: esophageal reflux testing. Am J Gastroenterol. 2007; 102(3): 668-685.