24 Hour pH probe is a procedure that enables
your physician to detect the presence of acid refluxing into
the esophagus. It is done by passing a thin flexible catheter
into the esophagus and sending you home for 24 hours.
WHY IS 24 HOUR pH PROBE DONE?
24 Hour pH probe is usually performed to evaluate
symptoms of chest pain, difficult to treat gastroesophageal
reflux disease or if surgery for gastroesophageal reflux disease
is being contemplated. It may also determine if there is a
relationship between a variety of symptoms and acid reflux.
WHAT PREPARATION IS REQUIRED?
It is necessary to have a completely empty
stomach for the safest and best possible examination. You
should have nothing to eat or drink, including water, for
approximately 2-6 hours before procedure. You may or may not
be required to stop your stomach medications 3 days before
the examination. Please ask doctor.
WHAT CAN BE EXPECTED DURING 24 HOUR
pH PROBE?
The test begins with sitting up comfortably.
A lubricated thin flexible catheter is passed through the
nose into the esophagus. The catheter does not interfere with
breathing. The catheter will be taped in place to your noise
and you will be sent home after proper placement confirmation.
There will be a small recording device you may attach to your
belt. There will be a diary for you to record time of meals,
sleep and any symptoms you may have (heartburn, chest pain
or tightness, knot in throat, etc.). After 24 hours, you will
return to the hospital, turn in your diary, and the catheter
will be removed. The data will be analyzed and you will be
contacted by the office several days later for the results.
WHAT ARE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS OF
A 24 HOUR PH PROBE?
