Bravo pH Monitoring System Measures Esophageal Acidity Levels

The Bravo pH Monitoring System is the first catheter-free system used to measure esophageal pH (acidity) levels in patients who have or are suspected of having gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The Bravo capsule, which contains a miniature pH sensor, is attached to the esophagus by gastroenterologists at Jefferson Medical Associates. The physician advances the capsule to the desired location, where it is attached to the wall of the esophagus. The capsule transmits pH data via radio telemetry signals, which are recorded by the receiver. After the study is completed, the patient returns the receiver to the hospital and the data is downloaded to a computer, where a comprehensive report for patient diagnosis is provided.