Heartburn Treatment Center at Maria Parham offers State-of-the-Art Diagnostic Testing for Acid Reflux
3/31/2011
For the many people suffering with acid reflux disease, the latest in medical technology is now available through The Heartburn Treatment Center at Maria Parham Medical Center. Over the last several years it has become well recognized that specific information is needed to assess patients who may have Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, often referred to as GERD. There are only a few healthcare facilities in the United States that have the technology available at The Heartburn Treatment Center at Maria Medical Center.
Three specific tests are utilized, in proper sequence, to make or rule out a diagnosis of GERD, assess the severity of the disease, and even assess any future risk of developing esophageal cancer. The results of these tests are essential in the selection of appropriate treatment for a patient suffering with GERD.
The first test is an Upper Endoscopy. While this procedure is not a new one, it is still the starting point for diagnosis. Under proper sedation, a scope is passed into the esophagus to visually assess any damage to the lining of the esophagus, as well as detect the presence of any pre-cancerous condition. A high definition television and other forms of electronic imaging have dramatically advanced the technology needed to carefully view the lining of the esophagus. Maria Parham Medical Center has the state-of-the-art scopes to provide the best possible images during this study.
The second study which is available only at select facilities is Telemetry pH testing. The brand name of this study is “Bravo 48 Hour pH Monitoring”. At most facilities across the United States, this study is performed with the patient wearing a tube down the nose overnight which measures the amount of acid reflux present. At the Heartburn Treatment Center at Maria Parham Medical Center this has been replaced by revolutionary technology. During the Upper Endoscopy utilizing this new method, a small electronic capsule is placed in the esophagus to measure the amount of acid reflux present. This information is sent via radio waves to a receiver that is worn like a “cell phone” on the patient’s belt---no more tubes down the nose. The capsule automatically detaches from the esophagus and harmlessly passes through the body once the study is completed. The information collected by the receiver is then used to generate a computerized report. This information will tell whether the patient has GERD, and, if so, how severe the problem is.
In addition to “Bravo 48 Hour pH Monitoring”, The Heartburn Treatment Center at Maria Parham Medical Center has recently acquired state-of-the-art technology called High Resolution Esophageal Manometry. This test is designed to assess whether the function of the esophagus has been altered or damaged by longstanding GERD.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is a significant disorder often associated with severe symptoms and a risk of cancer. If you have symptoms of GERD, like chronic heartburn, regurgitation, chronic cough or hoarseness, it is important that you seek help.
For more information on the latest in technology, diagnosis, and treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, please contact Alexia Edwards, RN, the Nurse Coordinator of The Heartburn Treatment Center at Maria Parham Medical Center at (252) 436-1176 or by calling 1-888-9NO-GERD.
Maria Parham Medical Center is a private, non-profit, full-service regional hospital serving the people of north central North Carolina and Southside Virginia. With a team of more than 150 physicians and 700 clinical and support staff, Maria Parham offers a wide range of services and the latest technology to meet the healthcare needs of the community. Maria Parham, located in Henderson, NC, is fully accredited by both The Joint Commission and CMS. For more information about Maria Parham Medical Center, please call (252) 436-1800 or visit www.mariaparham.com.