24-Hour Esophageal pH Study
About
The Procedure
The information obtained from this study will show if acid reflux is causing non-cardiac chest pain, hoarseness, coughing, halitosis or asthma, and will also measure normal acid levels. From this study, your physician will plan treatment for your particular health concern.
Before Your Appointment
The 24-hour esophageal pH study takes place in an examination room. You will not be asked to remove any clothing, and sedation is not usually given. Your appointment will last about an hour, including outpatient admission, instruction and placement of the pH catheter.
- The nurse will spray the inside of your throat with a topical anesthetic and will use an anesthetic lubricant on the small, flexible pH tube.
- The tube (1/8″ in diameter) is gently placed into one nostril and guided into the esophagus. The end of the tube is positioned precisely 2″ above the diaphragm, where acid sensing occurs.
- After the pH catheter is placed, it is secured to the end of your nose and side of your face with small pieces of silk tape.
- The catheter is attached to a "Walkman" style recorder, which is provided.
After Your Appointment
After your appointment you will be able to resume normal activities. Some patients find that the pH catheter does not interfere with their normal activities, while others find it to be annoying and choose to have someone drive them home. You will need to return to the clinic 24 hours after the procedure to have the catheter removed. Removal will only take about five minutes.
The catheter may cause:
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
Risks
24-Hour esophageal pH monitoring is a very low risk procedure, when performed by a competent specialist. Complications such as perforations (tearing) or bleeding of the gastrointestinal wall can occur, but they are rare. Equipment failure or death are extremely unlikely but remain remote possibilities.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns, either before or after your appointment.