Tests used to diagnose acid reflux and GERD in Otago and Southland
Persistent reflux symptoms can significantly affect quality of life. When reflux does not respond to medication, further investigation may be required to understand the cause and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Reflux investigations help confirm the diagnosis of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and assess how well the oesophagus and stomach are functioning.
Mark Grant is an Upper Gastrointestinal and Bariatric Surgeon based in Dunedin, providing assessment and investigation of reflux symptoms for patients across Otago, Southland, Queenstown, Wanaka and Invercargill.
These investigations help determine whether treatment should involve medication, lifestyle changes or surgery.
Why reflux investigations are important
Reflux symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation or chronic cough can have several possible causes.
Investigations help to:
- confirm the diagnosis of reflux disease
- identify a hiatus hernia
- assess oesophageal function
- evaluate damage to the oesophagus
- determine whether surgery is appropriate
Careful investigation ensures that treatment is tailored to the underlying cause of symptoms.
Common tests used to diagnose reflux
Several investigations may be recommended depending on your symptoms.
These tests help assess the anatomy and function of the oesophagus and stomach.
Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy)
Gastroscopy is one of the most common tests used to investigate reflux symptoms.
During this procedure a thin flexible camera is passed through the mouth into the oesophagus and stomach.
Gastroscopy allows the doctor to:
- examine the lining of the oesophagus
- identify inflammation or oesophagitis
- detect Barrett’s oesophagus
- identify a hiatus hernia
Biopsies may be taken during the procedure if required.
Oesophageal manometry
Oesophageal manometry measures the strength and coordination of muscles in the oesophagus.
A thin catheter is passed through the nose into the oesophagus to measure pressure changes during swallowing.
This test helps determine:
- how well the oesophagus moves food toward the stomach
- the strength of the lower oesophageal sphincter
- whether abnormal oesophageal motility is present
Manometry is often performed before anti-reflux surgery.
24-hour pH monitoring
Twenty-four hour pH monitoring is used to measure how often acid reflux occurs.
A small probe is placed in the oesophagus to record acid exposure over a 24-hour period.
This test helps confirm:
- whether acid reflux is occurring
- how frequently reflux episodes occur
- whether symptoms correlate with reflux episodes
pH monitoring is one of the most accurate tests for diagnosing reflux disease.
Impedance pH testing
In some cases combined impedance and pH monitoring may be used.
This test can detect both acid and non-acid reflux.
It is particularly helpful when symptoms continue despite acid-suppressing medication.
Imaging for hiatus hernia
Imaging studies may also be used to assess the anatomy of the oesophagus and stomach.
Common imaging tests include:
- barium swallow studies
- CT scans in selected cases
These tests can help identify hiatus hernia or other structural problems.
When reflux investigations are recommended
Investigations may be recommended when:
- reflux symptoms persist despite medication
- swallowing difficulties occur
- surgery for reflux is being considered
- symptoms are atypical or unexplained
- complications such as oesophagitis are suspected
These tests help ensure the most appropriate treatment is chosen.
Reflux investigations before surgery
Patients being considered for reflux surgery usually undergo a series of investigations.
These typically include:
• gastroscopy
• oesophageal manometry
• pH monitoring
These tests confirm the diagnosis of reflux disease and help determine which surgical procedure is most appropriate.
Reflux assessment for patients across Otago and Southland
Patients from across the southern South Island often travel to Dunedin for specialist Upper GI assessment.
Mark Grant assesses patients with reflux symptoms from:
- Dunedin
- Queenstown
- Wanaka
- Invercargill
- Oamaru
- Central Otago
Consultations are usually arranged following referral from a GP or specialist.
Consultation for reflux symptoms
If reflux symptoms are affecting your daily life, specialist assessment may help determine the cause and the most effective treatment.
During consultation your surgeon may review symptoms, previous tests and possible treatment options including medication or surgery.
FAQs
What is the best test for acid reflux?
Twenty-four hour pH monitoring is considered one of the most accurate tests for confirming acid reflux.
Is gastroscopy necessary for reflux?
Gastroscopy helps assess damage to the oesophagus and detect conditions such as Barrett’s oesophagus or hiatus hernia.
Do I need these tests before reflux surgery?
Most patients undergoing reflux surgery require investigations such as pH monitoring and oesophageal manometry to confirm the diagnosis.
Are reflux investigations painful?
Most investigations are well tolerated and performed as outpatient procedures.