Diagnostic Tests
If you suffer from persistent heartburn two or more days a week, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Inova offers state-of-the-art diagnostic studies to evaluate heartburn symptoms and diagnose GERD:
Outpatient
24-hour pH studies
Esophageal pH monitoring measures the acidity, or pH, of the esophagus over
a 24-hour period.
Esophageal evaluations
Esophageal manometry evaluates the function of the esophagus and the LES.
Esophageal impedance testing
Impedance testing is a new technique that enables more accurate diagnosis of
non-acid reflux events and other esophageal disorders, including reflux of gastric
contents.
Endoscopy
This exam utilizes a scope to view the inside of the esophagus and stomach to
identify esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) or a pre-cancerous condition
called Barrett's esophagus. Additionally, ulcers may be evaluated at the same
time.
Barium upper GI series
This exam uses X-rays to study potential problems in the esophagus, stomach
and upper part of the small intestine.
