Clinical utility of the wireless pH capsule.

GOAL: The aim of this prospective study was to determine whether this test changes patient diagnosis, provides new information, or alters patient care.

BACKGROUND

The wireless pH capsule is widely used to evaluate symptoms of acid reflux, although the clinical utility of this test is unknown.

STUDY: Before pH capsule placement, referring providers completed a questionnaire requesting indications for the test, symptoms, prior testing, and medication use. A follow-up survey determined whether providers believed that results of the wireless pH test provided new information, changed patient diagnosis or altered patient management.

RESULTS

During a 14-month period, 598 wireless pH capsule studies were conducted; 490 patients were eligible for inclusion, and 309 questionnaires were returned (63%). Mean patient age=48 (±15 y). The most common symptom leading to pH capsule placement was acid reflux (heartburn/regurgitation; 62%), followed by chest pain (11%). Wireless pH capsule results provided new information in 88% of patients, changed the diagnosis in 22%, and altered management in 63%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows the clinical utility of the wireless pH capsule, with test results frequently providing new information, altering patient management or changing patient diagnoses. Future studies should define specific test characteristics most likely to influence patient care.