What are the parts of this device?
The wireless probe is slightly longer than the width of a penny and encapsulates a pH sensor, small circuit board, two disk batteries, retaining bar, and antenna, resulting in a distinctive appearance on radiography A linear radioopaque structure and two radiopaque discs are always visualized at one end of this object, corresponding to the probe’s retaining bar and disk batteries. Intricate metal structures present in the remainder of this object on radiography correspond to the probe’s small circuit board and antenna
How does it work?
The wireless probe continuously transmits pH data to a pager-sized device worn on the patient’s hip, and, because of better tolerability, studies of 48 hr in duration are now used to improve the accuracy of diagnosis . The probe spontaneously detaches from the esophageal wall within 15 days and is eliminated via the gastrointestinal tract.
What are the contraindications to this device?
Wireless ambulatory pH monitoring is contraindicated in individuals with implantable electronic devices because of concerns relating to electrical interference. They also cannot be placed in persons who previously have undergone bowel resections or have known bowel strictures because of the possibility of impaction after detachment.
Zoomed image of the wireless pH probe.