A New Ambulatory System for Extended Esophageal PH Monitoring

A new 24-h ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring system (AMBI 24) was evaluated in 72 pediatric patients with suspected gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Forty-seven of these patients were monitored at home and the other 25 in our hospital. This system was employed without complication in infants and a full range of pediatric patients, as well as in older children with severe psychomotor delay. The data obtained were consistent with those reported utilizing standard monitoring equipment, and the results served as the basis for subsequent medical management. The results of this study, therefore, suggest that this method of esophageal pH monitoring is a safe and effective means of evaluating GER while allowing for patient mobility.