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pH
and impedance monitoring is an ambulatory 24-hour test that
measures reflux of stomach contents into the
esophagus. This diagnostic test determines if you have
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Although it is
normal to have some reflux, excessive reflux may damage the
lining of the esophagus and cause symptoms which include
chest pain, heartburn, difficulty or painful swallowing, cough,
hoarseness, and asthma. A very small, flexible catheter (a
tube about the size of spaghetti noodle) is inserted through
your nostril and placed strategically in the esophagus. The
catheter will be secured and attached to a recording device
that measures reflux for 24 hours. The catheter will not
interfere with eating, drinking or breathing. An esophageal manometry study is performed prior to inserting the pH/impedance catheter to determine accurate placement of the pH/impedance sensors. |
