Esophageal Motility, pH/Impedance, and Bravo

Esophageal Motility, PHImpedance, And Bravo

Get the Compassionate Medical Care You Deserve at RMG in Denver, CO

Individuals suffering from chronic sore throat, swallowing complications, and other signs of an esophageal motility disorder get treatment and relief at Denver, CO’s renowned GI practice, Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology. Our highly specialized treatment options help patients struggling with symptoms of esophageal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). From heartburn and hoarse voice to chest pain and coughing, the discomforts and complications associated with these disorders can drastically impact an individual’s everyday quality of life.

If you’re still experiencing these symptoms, we’re here to help. As the largest GI practice in the Denver region, our medical experts at Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology provide world-class care for complex esophageal conditions with leading-edge diagnostic testing and treatment. When you’re our patient, we’ll provide the advanced treatment you need and the compassionate care you deserve to manage your symptoms and regain control of your life. Explore our world-class treatment capabilities today.

The Symptoms of Esophageal Motility Disorders

Esophageal disorders pose a significant challenge for both patients and medical practitioners. These health conditions involve abnormalities in the rhythmic muscle contractions that facilitate the movement of food and liquid through the esophagus and into the stomach. When these contractions become irregular or impaired, individuals may experience a cascade of distressing symptoms ranging from:

  • Difficulty Swallowing
  • Painful Swallowing
  • Chest Pain or Discomfort
  • Abdominal Pain or Back Pain
  • Heartburn
  • Acid Reflux
  • Chronic Cough
  • Sore Throat & Hoarseness
  • Indigestion
  • Acid Regurgitation
  • Unintentional Weight Loss

Accurate Diagnosis for Complex Esophageal Disorders

Diagnosing an esophageal motility disorder accurately is paramount to developing an effective treatment strategy. Our state-of-the-art facilities throughout the Rocky Mountain region offer advanced pH-impedance and Bravo pH testing, allowing our experienced medical specialists at RMG to thoughtfully assess esophageal function with unparalleled precision. These studies provide valuable insights and real-time data into esophageal muscle contractions, acid exposure, and reflux patterns, enabling the doctors to formulate personalized care and treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique and individual needs.

If you’re suddenly experiencing symptoms or have recently been diagnosed with GERD and not responding well to your current treatment, learn more about the science and application of pH-impedance and Bravo pH monitoring tests and schedule a visit at RMG today. Let our attentive medical staff put a better treatment plan in motion.

pH Impedance Testing Explained

pH-impedance testing is a breakthrough diagnostic technique that goes beyond traditional pH testing for acid reflux. While pH testing solely measures acid levels in the esophagus, pH-impedance testing also evaluates non-acidic reflux episodes, providing a comprehensive view of the functions of the esophagus. This advanced technology allows our medical professionals to pinpoint potential sources of discomfort and accurately diagnose motility disorders, even in cases where acid reflux medications have not provided adequate relief.

pH-impedance testing is a minimally invasive method of testing that evaluates activity in the esophagus throughout the course of a 24-hour period. The test captures information as you carry out normal, everyday activities such as eating, drinking, and sleeping. A thin, flexible catheter with multiple sensors is gently placed through the nose and guided down into the esophagus. The sensors are present along the entire length of the catheter, recording both acid and non-acid reflux activity and detecting acidity changes as food and liquids pass through the esophagus.

By monitoring acid reflux episodes and non-acid reflux events, we can accurately identify whether gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other factors are causing a patient’s symptoms.

The Science of Bravo pH Monitoring

Brave pH testing is a revolutionary approach that provides a wireless alternative to traditional pH monitoring. Brave pH testing utilizes a tiny capsule-sized monitoring device, eliminating discomfort and allowing patients to continue their daily routines without restrictions.

The Brave capsule is gently and securely attached to the esophagus during an endoscopy procedure. Once in place, it begins continuously measuring esophageal pH levels for up to 96 hours. Throughout this period, patients can maintain their usual activities without the inconvenience of carrying an external monitoring device. This method of testing provides our specialists with detailed data on esophageal acid exposure over an extended period. By analyzing the recorded pH levels, we can identify patterns of acid reflux and correlate the symptoms with specific events, allowing for a precise diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Empowering Better Patient Outcomes

In many cases, non-invasive therapies, such as lifestyle modifications and medications, can effectively manage esophageal motility disorders. Our medical team works closely with patients like you to implement dietary changes, recommend proper mealtime practices, and prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms and promote healthy functions of the esophagus. Individuals with more severe or treatment-resistant conditions may be offered more advanced interventions, such as endoscopic therapies or minimally-invasive surgical procedures, to correct esophageal function and provide lasting relief.

RMG – A Legacy of Comprehensive GI Care

Since 1997, Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology has proudly remained at the forefront of comprehensive gastrointestinal care. We are a physician-owned practice that will provide you with the highest level of specialized care designed to get to the root source of your symptoms and help you recover a sense of normalcy. If you or a loved one is experiencing the symptoms of an esophageal motility disorder, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our skilled specialists. Our goal is to improve your quality of life and help you find relief from the discomforts associated with your condition.

Your journey towards better digestive health starts here. Each of our facilities features state-of-the-art equipment and technologies not offered anywhere else in the region, empowering our experienced clinical staff to provide the most comprehensive care our patients deserve. Schedule your appointment with our compassionate team today, and together, we will chart a personalized path toward improving your health and enhancing your well-being.

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