An oesophageal pH-Impedance study measures and records the pH in your oesophagus to learn if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The test can also be done to determine the effectiveness of medications or surgery for GERD. A pH-impedance test is the most sensitive test to diagnose reflux from the stomach into the oesophagus.
Oesopahgeal ph-impedance Study
How is a pH-Impedance Study is performed?
This test involves swallowing a thin tube. The tube passes from the nose, is taped across your cheek, and is connected to a small device that is worn on your hip that measures reflux over the course of one day (24 hours).
The nasal passage and throat are numbed with a local anaesthetic spray to place the tube. You may experience some discomfort in the nose or back of the throat but generally the test is well tolerated.
You will be in the department for approximately 45 minutes. Once the tube has been placed you can leave the department and go about your normal activities.
How to prepare for a pH-Impedance Study
Please do not have anything to eat or drink six hours before your procedure. Please take your usual medication in the morning of your appointment with a small sip of water. After the probe has been placed you may eat and drink normally.
If you are on any blood thinning medication (anti-coagulants) e.g. aspirin or warfarin and if you are diabetic on insulin please contact the MacMurray Centre on 550 1080.
What happens after a pH-Impedance Study?
The following day you will need to return to the MacMurray Centre to have the tube removed. The information from the monitoring device is fed into a computer to analyse your study. You will have follow up with your specialist to review the results.