Can a Bravo capsule be removed?
Background: Currently, use of the Bravo capsule is a very common method for evaluating the gastroesophageal reflux because it has the advantage of being an intraesophageal catheter-free system. However, endoscopic removal of the capsule is necessary when technical problems or severe discomfort are present.
How does the Bravo capsule detach?
The Bravo capsule detaches itself from the esophagus through a combination of natural tissue regeneration and sheer force from eating, generally within five to seven days.
Can you feel the Bravo capsule detach?
The capsule might fail to stay in place for the full testing period. Or, it might not detach when it’s supposed to do so. Rarely, people having this test might feel some discomfort when they swallow, chest pain or back pain. You may have a sore throat from the endoscopy for a day or so.
Does Bravo capsule hurt?
Most patients have no or mild symptoms while the capsule is attached, but more severe chest pain, odynophagia, or dysphagia occurs in about 10% of patients. Interestingly, discomfort is more common in patients with functional dyspepsia.
Is the Bravo test safe?
Although the Bravo pH test is safe and only available by prescription, there are a few potential complications such as: Premature detachment of the pH capsule. Failure of pH capsule to detach within several days after placement. Discomfort with placement of the pH capsule.
What are the side effects of Bravo capsule?
In some patients, the capsule will fail to detach from the esophagus after the test has ended. Bleeding, tears in the mucosa and capsule aspiration can also occur. Some patients also experience fever, infection, high blood pressure, and respiratory or cardiac arrest.
How does the Bravo system work and how does it work?
With the Bravo system, a miniature pH capsule, approximately the size of a gel cap, is temporarily attached to the wall of your esophagus. The capsule transmits pH information wirelessly to a portable receiver you wear on your waistband.
What are the risks of using the Bravo pH monitoring system?
Potential complications for using the Bravo pH Monitoring System include the following events: Premature detachment of the pH capsule. Failure of the pH capsule to detach from the esophagus within several days after placement, or discomfort associated with the pH capsule, requiring endoscopic removal.
How does the Bravo pH test work in the esophagus?
The Bravo pH monitoring test is a system that includes: A pH-sensing wireless capsule that is placed into esophageal tissue to measure pH levels. A recorder you wear to capture the data from the capsule A software system that makes it all work.
Are there any side effects to the Bravo test?
Additionally, because the capsule contains a small magnet, you should not have an MRI study within 30 days of undergoing the Bravo pH test. Potential complications associated with gastrointestinal endoscopy include perforation, hemorrhage, aspiration, fever, infection, hypertension, respiratory arrest, and cardiac arrhythmia or arrest.