We report an unexpected, previously unreported complication of
Bravo pH
capsule dislodgement. During
Bravo pH testing of a 44-year-old man with
gastroesophageal reflux disease, we were unable to endoscopically visualize the
capsule attached to the esophageal wall after deployment. After multiple attempts to detect the
capsule, it was visualized in the left pyriform sinus. As there was significant risk for pulmonary dislodgement, ENT and pulmonary physicians were immediately consulted to review options for safe removal. Ultimately, ENT successfully retrieved the
capsule with a
foreign body removal
forceps. The
Bravo pH test is generally a well-tolerated diagnostic tool used to confirm the presence of abnormal esophageal
acid reflux. While few complications have been reported, technical difficulties can occur, including poor data reception, misplacement, and early dislodgement. Rarely, more serious complications can occur, ranging from esophageal wall
trauma to
capsule aspiration. Gastroenterologists performing this procedure should be aware of the low, but non-trivial, risk of complications.