24-Hour pH Probe Test

Purpose

The continuous esophageal pH monitoring study measures the duration and frequency of acid reflux ( stomach contents coming back up into the esophagus). It measures the effectiveness of the esophagus in clearing the specific symptoms of the child. This study looks at the amount of reflux in a 24 hour period, compared to the upper GI, which only evaluates reflux over a 5 minute period in one situation.

Preparation

• No solid foods after 12:00 midnight the night before the study begins.
• No liquids for 4 hours prior to the test.

Placement

Your child will be admitted to Mott Children's Hospital before the probe is placed. The pH probe may be placed at the bedside during a hospital admission.

Medications

No antacids or acid-reducing medications will be allowed for days prior to the test. ( Zantac, Prilosec, Maalox, Propulsid, Reglan.) Resume these medications after the pH probe test is completed.

Diet

Once the pH probe is placed your child will be allowed to resume eating. You will be instructed to keep a diary of when your child eats.

Your child can not eat or drink any foods/liquids that are acidic or the test results will not be reliable. If you have any question about a particular food or liquid, please ask the nurse caring for your child.

Foods high in acid include: Juice, Soda Pop, Popsicles, Sherbert, Fruit, Fruit flavored hard candy, Catsup, Tomato products

This information is provided by the University of Michigan Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. For additional health information, please contact your health care provider or our offices.