Diagnostic tool for GERD. (Product Marketplace).Medtronic, Inc., introduces the Bravo[TM] pH Monitoring System, to be used in the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Disorder characterized by frequent passage of gastric contents from the stomach back into the esophagus. Symptoms of GERD may include heartburn, coughing, frequent clearing of the throat, and difficulty in swallowing. (GERD GERD gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD abbr. gastroesophageal reflux disease GERD ). The Bravo System is the first catheter-free method for conducting esophageal esophageal /esoph·a·ge·al/ (e-sof?ah-je´al) of or pertaining to the esophagus. esophageal of or pertaining to the esophagus. esophageal achalasia see megaesophagus. pH monitoring, which measures acid levels in the esophagus esophagus (ĭsŏf`əgəs), portion of the digestive tube that conducts food from the mouth to the stomach. When food is swallowed it passes from the pharynx into the esophagus, initiating rhythmic contractions (peristalsis) of the . It offers a convenient test that leads to a more accurate GERD diagnosis without requiring a 24-hour nasal catheter. With the Bravo, patients can maintain a normal diet and activity level during the testing period, which yields more representative data. The System consists of a capsule (about the size of a gelcap) that is temporarily attached to the wall of the esophagus with a proprietary delivery system. Throughout the study period, the capsule transmits pH data through radiotelemetry to a pager-sized receiver worn by the patient. Data are later downloaded to Medtronic software for analysis. Within 7 to 10 days of being attached, the Bravo capsule spontaneously detaches and passes through the digestive tract digestive tract n. See alimentary canal. Digestive tract The organs that perform digestion, or changing of food into a form that can be absorbed by the body. . Circle 185 on Reader Service Card |
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