24-hour esophageal pH-metry
24-hour esophageal pH-metry is a study that measures the amount of acid that is returned from the stomach to the esophagus over a 24-hour period. To perform esophageal pH-metry, the professional introduces a thin, flexible probe with acidity sensors through one of the nostrils. The probe is slid down the esophagus and its end is placed in the distal region of the esophagus (close to the stomach). The acidity is recorded on a portable device for later analysis by the specialist.
The study is performed to determine the presence of acidity in the esophagus and diagnose whether there is gastroesophageal reflux.
General recommendations
Preparation for the procedure is of vital importance for the correct preparation and performance of the examination requested of you. Remember that it is your treating physician, or the health team that cares for you, who knows your health status and recommends the performance of this examination (indication and relevance), not the Gastroclinic Institute as such.
For technical-scientific reasons and for patient safety, we recommend that you prepare for the exam in the established manner. However, we also suggest that you consult your doctor beforehand , as he or she is the one who knows your health condition and can best advise you on the possibility of doing this preparation, in case you have an illness or are undergoing treatment that cannot be interrupted for fasting.
For endoscopic procedures, patients over 75 years of age, under 12 years of age, or with cognitive disability problems, sleep apnea (those who use CPAP), those who have suffered a heart attack less than six months ago, with psychiatric disorders, genetic disorders, epilepsy and those who use oxygen in their daily lives must report this condition by contacting the Gastroclinical Institute before beginning the preparation, in order to confirm the appointment assignment.
Recommendations for the day of the procedure
Fast for 6 hours before the exam time.
If the exam is after 12:00 p.m. you can have a light breakfast before 7:00 a.m.
No specific diet is required.
If you are taking any medications for digestive problems or diseases, you should stop taking them 7 days before the exam. Medications that should be stopped include: antacids (Mylanta, Ditopax, Milpax), omeprazole, lansoprazole, rabeprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole, ranitidine, metoclopramide (Plasil), and similar medications.
Please take into account the medical advice, in case the suspension of the medication is not required.