London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
Bravo pH study
A relatively new method for detecting the reflux of acid from your stomach into your food pipe (oesophagus)
What is a bravo pH study?
A bravo pH study is a way of studying the pH levels in your food pipe. The damage caused by reflux can lead to complications such as difficulty swallowing or changes to the cells which line your food pipe.
More commonly, it can cause symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation and coughing.
Need to know
Your consultant will attach a miniature pH capsule to your food pipe via your mouth. This will be a few centimetres above the junction where your food pipe joins your stomach.
During the test the bravo capsule will measure the pH levels in your food pipe over a period of 48 to 96 hours, and send this information to a receiver. You will be given a diary to write down the times when you eat, drink, lie down, stand up and experience symptoms such as heartburn.
After the test is complete you return the diary and receiver to our team so we can produce a detailed report for your consultant.
You may need to stop certain medications before having this test carried out. Your consultant will confirm which ones and let you know how best to prepare for this procedure.
You will be able to leave the hospital immediately following your test. The capsule will naturally fall off the wall of your food pipe a few days afterwards. It will pass through your digestive tract and be expelled from your body naturally. You will need to have a follow-up appointment with your consultant to discuss the results.
Our Bravo pH study locations
The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
London Digestive Centre
41 Welbeck Street W1G 8EA London
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.