Esophageal Impedance Test

Because the computer must generate graphs and tables from the data obtained during the exam, the results of the test will not be available while you’re still in the endoscopy unit. The test results will be interpreted by the physician at a later time. You should be contacted by the doctor’s office within a week with the exam results.

The esophageal impedance test is a very safe procedure. Complications occur in less than 1% of patients. Most complications are not life-threatening, however, if a complication occurs, it may require hospitalization and surgery. Prior to the exam, a consent form will be reviewed with the patient by the nursing staff.

Perforation or puncture of the esophagus is a very uncommon complication but can occur. This may be recognized at the time of the exam, or it may not be apparent until later in the day. In most cases, a perforation will require surgery and hospitalization.

It is very important that the patient contact GI Alliance immediately if symptoms arise after the procedure such as worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever.

Like any other test, an esophageal impedance test is not perfect. There is a small, accepted risk that abnormalities can be missed at the time of the exam. It is important to continue to follow up with your GI doctors as instructed and inform them of any new or persistent symptoms. Schedule an appointment at your nearest GI Alliance location for more information.

To an extent, the alternatives to the exam will depend on the reason for needing to undergo the 24 hour pH probe in the first place. The only other alternative to measuring the pH of the esophagus is the Bravo 48 hour pH probe.

A Bravo 48 hour pH probe is a procedure whereby a small pH monitor is attached to the bottom part of the esophagus via a thin catheter introduced through the mouth. Once in place, the monitor is detached from the catheter which is then removed. Thereafter the monitor will transmit its data to a wireless recorder worn on the belt for the following 48 hours. Within a few days of completing the procedure, the pH monitor will spontaneously detach from the esophagus and pass out of the digestive tract.

The purpose of the study is to look for abnormal amounts of acid within the esophagus. A 48 hour pH probe may be ordered by your physician in order to evaluate for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), help determine the cause of chest pain, or prior to esophageal surgery.

Often an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is performed to help place the esophageal monitor. For more information on the esophageal impedance test and the alternatives available to you, contact your local GI Alliance location and schedule an appointment with a GI physician.