BRAVO™ reflux capsule | Digitrapper™ pH & impedance test system
Dr. med. Thomas Brunk Gastroenterology Berlin
What is the Bravo™ Reflux Test System used for?
The BRAVO capsule is an innovative, ambulatory, capsule-based pH test system that records esophageal pH data for up to 96 hours. It is an examination method that is used to diagnose acid reflux. In contrast to conventional systems for pH measurement, the BRAVO system is a catheter-free design that is better tolerated and preferred by patients. The extended 96-hour recording time provides four times the data of a 24-hour catheter test. The BRAVO system therefore increases the likelihood of detecting reflux events, determining their frequency and duration and being able to better assess patients’ symptoms. We offer this examination for privately insured and self-paying patients.
What is the Digitrapper™ pH-Z test system used for?
The Digitrapper™ pH-Z testing system is a state-of-the-art diagnostic tool designed to detect acid and non-acid reflux. It combines pH and impedance measurements to provide a comprehensive examination of your symptoms and create the best treatment plan for you. We offer this test for privately insured and self-pay patients.
What preparation is required and how is the examination carried out?
If you are taking acid-blocking medication, you must stop taking it in good time before the examination. We will inform you about this during the consultation. You must be sober for the examination. Both the BRAVO capsule and the Digitrapper probe are inserted during a gastroscopy, which is performed under sedation. The capsule is anchored in the lower esophagus. The capsule is about the size of a vitamin tablet and usually causes no discomfort. Placement takes just a few minutes. The capsule measures the pH value for 96 hours and sends this to a small receiver device (size comparable to a wallet). The Digitrapper probe is inserted into the esophagus via the nose, where it remains for 24 hours. It is connected to a small recorder.
After the gastroscopy and a short period of monitoring, you can leave our practice ready to eat and drink normally. During the measurement period, you can record events such as food intake or pain episodes using the corresponding buttons on the respective receiver. This information helps to link your symptoms to reflux events. At the end of the measurement, you must return the recorder to us for evaluation. The capsule dissolves independently from the mucous membrane of the esophagus in 7 to 14 days and is excreted naturally. The Digitrapper measuring probe is carefully removed by us in the practice. A repeat gastroscopy is not necessary in each case.
I would like to undergo an examination using the BRAVO capsule or Digitrapper measurement, what is the next step?
If you have any questions about the examination or would like to make an appointment, please contact our practice. We will be happy to advise you and provide you with further details.