Wireless pH testing as an adjunct to unsedated transnasal esophagoscopy: the safety and efficacy of transnasal telemetry capsule placement.

OBJECTIVES: The introduction of 48-hour wireless pH testing offers clinicians a new alternative for the objective documentation of reflux. The success of transnasal wireless pH capsule placement has not been previously described. The purpose of this investigation was to describe our experience with transnasal wireless pH capsule placement. METHODOLOGY: All patients undergoing unsedated transnasal esophagoscopy and wireless pH capsule placement between January 1, 2003 and July 31, 2003 were prospectively evaluated. Data concerning patient tolerance, success of capsule placement and function, complications, and pH recordings were collected. RESULTS: During this time, 46 persons were evaluated. The mean age of the cohort was 52 years. Of the patients, 50% were male. The indications for the procedure were chronic cough (18/46), gastroesophageal reflux disease (18/46), and larygopharyngeal reflux (10). Of the procedures performed, 85% (39/46) were successful. Complications included epistaxis (2/46), laryngospasm (2/46), and vasovagal reaction (1/46). CONCLUSIONS: The transnasal placement of a wireless pH capsule is a safe and effective diagnostic adjunct to unsedated transnasal esophagoscopy.