Study of gastroesophageal reflux. Interpretation of functional tests in the obese patient.

Overweight and obesity are a public health problem and in 1997 obesity was recognized as a global epidemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). Overweight and obesity affect almost 60% of adults and one in three children in Europe according to the most recent WHO report. Objectively, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined as the presence of characteristic esophageal mucosal damage assessed by endoscopy and/or the demonstra-tion of pathological acid exposure by reflux monitoring studies. The prevalence of GERD is increased in obese patients In overweight and obese patients, the clinical symptoms of GERD are especially present in the supine position and this correlates with more frequent episodes of nocturnal reflux in the 24-h pH monitoring, there is also an increase in the number of refluxes with content acid. In the population with symptoms, digestive endoscopy detects data of erosive esophagitis in 50% of patients, while 24-h pH-impedanciometry diagnoses 92% of patients with non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) The presence of persistent GERD in the mucosa affects esophageal motility and patients may develop ineffective esophageal motility-type disorders, so we will review the interpre-tation of the functional tests that determine motility, which is esophageal manometry, and those that determine reflux gastroesophageal, acid and non-acid, which is the pH measure-ment with or without 24-h impedanciometry.

Possible technical aspects involved in the development of GERD after sleeve gastrectomy: Surgical technique considerations.

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most common bariatric surgery worldwide and has shown to cause de novo or worsen symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Esophageal motility and physiology studies are mandatory in bariatric and foregut centers. The predisposing factors in post-SG patients are disruption of His angle, resection of gastric fold and gastric fundus, increased gastric pressure, resection of the gastric antrum, cutting of the sling fibers and pyloric spasm. There are symptomatic complications due to sleeve morphology as torsion, incisura angularis stenosis, kinking and dilated fundus. In this article, we present recommendations, surgical technique and patient selection flow diagram for SG and avoid de novo or worsening GERD.

Momento adecuado para las pruebas diagnósticas de reflujo esofágico en pacientes con atresia de esófago / Adequate timing of diagnostic tests for gastroesophageal reflux in children with esophageal atresia

Objetivos: Recientemente se han publicado recomendaciones para el manejo del reflujo gastroesofágico en pacientes con atresia de esófago (AE). Sin embargo, el momento de realización de algunas pruebas no está completamente aclarado. Esta investigación evalúa las pruebas para reflujo gastroesofágico en niños de 1 año y niños de 2-3 años. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de pacientes con AE sometidos a impedanciometría-phmetría (IMpH) y a endoscopia-histología. Los pacientes con 1 año en el momento de la prueba formaron el grupo MEN, y los pacientes con 2-3 años, el grupo MAY. Se consideró IMpH sustancialmente alterada aquella con un número total de reflujos >105 o >85 (según la edad), o un índice de reflujo >10%. La endoscopia se consideró sustancialmente alterada si presentaba esofagitis erosiva o esófago de Barrett. La histología se consideró sustancialmente alterada si presentaba esofagitis severa-moderada o esófago de Barrett. Se compararon los parámetros convencionales y los sustancialmente alterados. Resultados: Se estudiaron 24 pacientes. Se realizaron 23 IMpH (12 en el grupo MEN y 11 en el MAY); los porcentajes de los parámetros convencionales patológicos no fueron estadísticamente diferentes en ambos grupos. Se realizaron 20 endoscopias (7 en el grupo MEN y 13 en el MAY); los porcentajes de esofagitis no fueron estadísticamente diferentes. El 26,9% de todas las pruebas en el grupo MEN resultaron sustancialmente alteradas, frente al 10,8% en el MAY (χ2 = 2,7;p = 0,1). Conclusión: Teniendo en cuenta el porcentaje de resultados alarmantes en el grupo MEN, sería recomendable realizar una IMpH y una endoscopia con biopsias a los pacientes con AE a la edad de un año.(AU)

Objective: Recent guidelines made recommendations for the management of gastroesophageal reflux in patients with esophageal atresia (EA). However, the timing for some diagnostic tests remained somehow unclear. This investigation studied the tests for gastroesophageal reflux in children aged one year old and children aged two or three. Material and methods: Patients with EA who underwent Multichannel Intraluminal Impedance-pH monitoring (MII-pH) and endoscopy-histology were studied retrospectively. Patients aged one when the test was performed were the YO group and patients aged two or three years old formed the OL group. Substantially impaired MII-pH was defined as total number of reflux episodes >105 or >85 (depending on age), or reflux index >10%. Substantially impaired endoscopy was defined as erosive esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus. Substantially impaired histology was defined as moderate-severe esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus. Conventional parameters and substantially impaired values of the tests were compared. Results: Twenty-four patients were studied. Twenty-three MII-pH were performed (12 in YO and 11 in OL): percentages of abnormal conventional parameters of MII-pH were not significantly different in both groups. Twenty endoscopies with biopsies were performed (7 in YO and 13 in OL): percentages of esophagitis were not significantly different. Interestingly, 26.9% of all the tests performed in YO were substantially impaired vs. 10.8% of all the tests in OL (χ2 = 2.7; p = 0.1). Conclusion: Considering the percentage of alarming results of diagnostic tests in the YO group it would be advisable that patients with EA undergo MII-pH and endoscopy-histology at one year of age.(AU)

Valores normais de impedância-pHmetria de 24 horas em uma coorte de voluntários saudáveis na Argentina / Normal values of esophageal 24-hour impedance-ph ambulatory in an argentine cohort of healthy volunteers

ABSTRACT Background There are no data of reference values on 24-hour multichannel intraluminal impedance and pH (pH-MII) monitoring in Argentinian populations. Objective Our aim was to obtain the normal values of pH-MII variables among healthy asymptomatic volunteers in a metropolitan Health Care Center of Argentina, and to compare them with data already published from other regions around the world. Methods A cross-sectional study was undertaken in a tertiary referral center in Buenos Aires. We enrolled healthy subjects and asked them to undergo esophageal pH-MII 24hours monitoring. pH-MII variables were recorded and described. Results Median reflux events was 20.5 (25-75%, 95%) interquartile range: (14-46, 50) and proximal reflux episodes was 2.5 (0-10, 11). Sixty percent were acid reflux episodes: 12 (5-29, 38), representing a relatively low value when compared to those reported in European, American and Chinese populations. Conclusion Our study shows the first reference of normal values of gastroesophageal reflux in an Argentinian population. We found a total number of reflux events and a total number of proximal reflux events lower than what was reported until this date by other authors.

RESUMO Contexto Não há dados de valores de referência sobre o monitoramento de impedância intraluminal multicanal 24 horas e monitoramento de pH (pH-MII) em populações argentinas. Objetivo O objetivo foi obter os valores normais das variáveis pH-MII entre voluntários assintomáticos saudáveis em um centro metropolitano de saúde da Argentina, e compará-los com dados já publicados de outras regiões do mundo. Métodos Estudo transversal foi realizado em um centro de referência terciário em Buenos Aires. Foram recrutados indivíduos saudáveis para se submeterem ao monitoramento esofágico pH-MII 24 horas. As variáveis pH-MII foram registradas e descritas. Resultados A média de eventos de refluxo foi de 20,5 (25-75%, 95%) entre os episódios interquartis: (14-46, 50) e os episódios de refluxo proximal foram de 2,5 (0-10, 11). Sessenta por cento foram episódios de refluxo ácido: 12 (5-29, 38), representando um valor relativamente baixo quando comparado com os relatados em populações europeias, americanas e chinesas. Conclusão Nosso estudo mostra a primeira referência de valores normais de refluxo gastroesofágico em uma população argentina. Encontramos um número total de eventos de refluxo e um número total de eventos de refluxo proximal menor do que o relatado até esta data por outros autores.

Utilidad de la ecografía como método diagnóstico de reflujo ácido patológico en comparación con la pHmetría esofágica / Usefulness of ultrasound as a diagnostic method of pathological acid reflux compared to esophageal pH metry

Introducción: el gold standard para el diagnóstico de reflujo ácido en Pediatría es la pHmetría 24 horas. La ecografía ha demostrado ser una técnica incruenta y existen pocos estudios que la comparen con la pHmetría. Métodos: estudio prospectivo, observacional y analítico. Se realizó estudio ecográfico a pacientes con indicación de pHmetría, y previa a esta. Se determinaron variables ecográficas propuestas por el grupo de ecografía de la SEGHNP (Gomes 1991 modificado), considerando la presencia de reflujo ácido patológico si tenía dos o más parámetros alterados. Resultados: se incluyeron 32 pacientes, 68,8% (n = 22) varones, entre 1 mes y 13 años. Tenían pHmetría patológica el 59,3% (n = 19). El diagnóstico de reflujo por ecografía según lo propuesto por la SEGHNP no se relacionó con el diagnóstico de reflujo ácido por pHmetría (p = 0,169). La ecografía presentó una sensibilidad de 60% y una especificidad del 61,5%, con valor predictivo positivo (VPP) de 70,58% y valor predictivo negativo de 53,3%. Al analizar cada variable ecográfica y compararla con la presencia de reflujo por pHmetría no hubo datos significativos. Sin embargo, un ángulo de Hiss patológico y una longitud del esófago abdominal menor de 1,3 cm se asociaron estadísticamente con reflujo ácido por pHmetría (p = 0,033), obteniendo un VPP, cociente de probabilidad positivo y probabilidad preprueba positiva altos (88,9%; 5,47; 89,1%, respectivamente), con proporción de falsos positivos bajo (7,7%). Conclusión: en nuestra población estudiada, los criterios ecográ9 (AU)ficos propuestos por la SEGHNP no se relacionan con pHmetría patológica, pero si la presencia de un esófago abdominal menor de 1,3 cm junto a un ángulo de Hiss mayor de 110°

Introduction: the gold standard for diagnosis of acid reflux in paediatric patients is 24-hour pH monitoring. Ultrasound is a non-invasive technique and few studies have compared it with pH monitoring.Methods: prospective, observational and analytical study. We performed an ultrasound examination in patients in whom pH monitoring was indicated before performance of the latter test. We analysed the sonographic variables proposed by the Ultrasound Group of the SEGHNP (modified Gomes 1991 criteria), with 2 or more abnormal sonographic parameters indicating the presence of pathological acid reflux.Results: the study included 32 patients, 68.8% (n = 22) male, aged 1 month to 13 years. The results of pH monitoring were pathological in 59.3% (n = 19). We did not find an association between the sonographic diagnosis of reflux according to the criteria proposed by SEGHNP and the diagnosis of reflux based on pH monitoring (p = 0.169). We found a sensitivity of 60% and a specificity of 61.5% with the use of ultrasound, with a positive predictive value (PPV) of 70.58% and a negative predictive value of 53.3%. When we compared each ultrasound variable separately to the presence of reflux determined by pH monitoring, we did not find any significant associations. However, we found a statistically significant association between the combination of an angle of His in the pathological range and an abdominal oesophagus length of less than 1.3 cm on ultrasound and the detection of acid reflux by pH monitoring (p = 0.033), with a high PPV, positive likelihood ratio and pre-test probability (88.9%, 5.47 and 89.1%, respectively) and a low false-positive rate (7.7%).Conclusion: in our sample, we did not find an association between the... (AU)

Multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH and psychometric properties in gastroesophageal reflux: systematic review / Impedância intraluminal multicanal associada à pHmetria e propriedades psicométricas do refluxo gastroesofágico: revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective: Systematically assess studies that have analyzed the psychometric properties of multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH for the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux. Systematically verify studies that have analyzed the psychometric properties of multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH regarding the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease in pediatric patients. Methods: Systematic review considering specific descriptors (children and adolescents, gastroesophageal reflux disease and multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH) and their synonyms. The systematic search was carried out in the MEDLINE/Ovid, Scopus, and Embase databases, considering the period from October 2017 to December 2018. This review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), which was used for study selection. The psychometric properties described in the studies were: sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and reproducibility. Results: Sensitivity was discussed in most studies, with a result of more than 70% in four of them. Specificity was assessed only in conjunction with sensitivity, with values from 23% to 25% in two studies, and it reached 80% in a single study. Accuracy was assessed higher than 76% in one of the selected articles. The methodological quality of the studies demonstrated low risk of bias, and there was no significant concern related to applicability of the studies. Conclusions: According to the selected studies, multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH was considered a safe and effective tool, presenting higher sensitivity values than pHmetry regarding the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar sistematicamente estudos que analisaram propriedades psicométricas da impedância intraluminal multicanal associada à pHmetria (IIM-pH) no diagnóstico de refluxo gastroesofágico. Verificar sistematicamente estudos que analisaram as propriedades psicométricas de impedância intraluminal multicanal associada à pHmetria em relação ao diagnóstico da doença do refluxo gastroesofágico em pacientes pediátricos. Métodos: Revisão sistemática que considerou descritores específicos (crianças e adolescentes, doença do refluxo gastroesofágico e impedância intraluminal multicanal associada à pHmetria) e seus sinônimos. A busca sistemática foi realizada nas bases de dados Medline/Ovid, Scopus e Embase e considerou o período de outubro de 2017 a dezembro de 2018. Esta revisão foi realizada de acordo com o checklist Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (Prisma), usado para seleção de estudos. As propriedades psicométricas descritas nos estudos foram: sensibilidade, especificidade, acurácia e reprodutibilidade. Resultados: A sensibilidade foi discutida na maioria dos estudos, com um resultado de mais de 70% em quatro deles. A especificidade foi avaliada apenas em conjunto com a sensibilidade, com valores em torno de 23 a 25% em dois estudos, e alcançou 80% em um único estudo. A acurácia foi avaliada em mais de 76% em um dos artigos selecionados. A qualidade metodológica dos estudos demonstrou baixo risco de viés e nenhuma consideração significativa relacionada à aplicabilidade dos estudos. Conclusões: De acordo com os estudos selecionados, a impedância intraluminal multicanal associada à pHmetria foi considerada uma ferramenta segura e eficaz, apresentou valores de sensibilidade superiores à pHmetria no diagnóstico da doença do refluxo gastroesofágico.

Lesiones dentales asociadas a enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico en pediatría / Dental Injuries Associated with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Pediatrics

Acta Pediátrica Hondureña, Vol. 11 No.2/ Octubre 2020 a Marzo 2021 1186 El reflujo gastroesofágico (RGE) es el paso fisio- lógico del contenido gástrico hacia el esófago, presente en condiciones normales a cualquier edad y es uno de los problemas gastrointestinales más comunes en niños. El estado nutricional es adecuado y muchas veces por arriba de los per- centiles de peso y talla y es un niño "vomitador feliz". En cambio, la enfermedad por reflujo gas- troesofágico (ERGE) está asociada con síntomas molestos respiratorios, digestivos, trastornos durante el sueño, lesiones dentales las que en un gran número de casos pasan desapercibidas y son notadas hasta que han causado un daño signifi- cativo y pueden ir desde prurito, ardor de muco- sa, aumento de la sensibilidad dental y lingual, sabor amargo, erosiones hasta caries dental, estas cumplen un importante papel en la edad pediá- trica, sobre todo cuando el niño presenta trastor- nos en las funciones neurosensoriales, motoras, como daño neurológico secundario a encefalo- patía hipóxico isquémica, defectos del tubo neu- ral, atresia esofágica y enfermedades degene- rativas. Dentro de las complicaciones de ERGE cabe resaltar neumonía por broncoaspiración, otitis, faringoamigdalitis, crup y compromiso en el estado nutricional. La ERGE tiene gran impor- tancia médica y social debido al incremento en su incidencia y a los síntomas duraderos ya que reducen la calidad de vida. La habilidad de poder distinguir entre las mani- festaciones clínicas de RGE y ERGE en los dife- rentes grupos etarios nos permite identificar que pacientes deben ser extensamente evaluados y manejados con tratamiento conservador o si es- tos requieren ser derivados al odontólogo pedia- tra. Debido a que existe desconocimiento acerca de las lesiones dentales que se producen en la ERGE decidimos hacer la presente revisión ya que es muy importante que el personal de salud: estudiantes, médicos y odontólogos sean capaces de identificar, diagnosticar e implementar reco- mendaciones apropiadas, dar tratamiento espe- cífico tanto desde el punto de vista médico como dental dadas las repercusiones que esta conlleva y así derivar oportunamente...(AU)

Recommendations for the reopening and activity resumption of the neurogastroenterology units in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Position of the Sociedad Latinoamericana de Neurogastroenterología. / Recomendaciones para la reapertura y reinicio de actividades de las Unidades de Neurogastroenterología ante la pandemia por COVID-19. Posicionamiento de la Sociedad Latinoamericana de Neurogastroenterología.

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the establishment of preventive measures against contagion during the performance of diagnostic and therapeutic tests in gastroenterology. Digestive tract motility tests involve an intermediate and elevated risk for the transmission of COVID-19 infection. Given their elective or non-urgent indication in the majority of cases, we recommend postponing those tests until significant control of the infection rate in each Latin American country has been achieved during the pandemic. When the health authorities allow the return to normality, and in the absence of an effective treatment for or preventive vaccine against COVID-19 infection, we recommend a strict protocol for classifying patients according to their infectious-contagious status through the appropriate use of tests for the detection of the virus and the immune response to it, and the following of protective measures by the healthcare personnel to prevent contagion during the performance of a gastrointestinal motility test.

Multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH and psychometric properties in gastroesophageal reflux: systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: Systematically assess studies that have analyzed the psychometric properties of multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH for the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux. Systematically verify studies that have analyzed the psychometric properties of multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH regarding the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease in pediatric patients. METHODS: Systematic review considering specific descriptors (children and adolescents, gastroesophageal reflux disease and multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH) and their synonyms. The systematic search was carried out in the MEDLINE/Ovid, Scopus, and Embase databases, considering the period from October 2017 to December 2018. This review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), which was used for study selection. The psychometric properties described in the studies were: sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and reproducibility. RESULTS: Sensitivity was discussed in most studies, with a result of more than 70% in four of them. Specificity was assessed only in conjunction with sensitivity, with values from 23% to 25% in two studies, and it reached 80% in a single study. Accuracy was assessed higher than 76% in one of the selected articles. The methodological quality of the studies demonstrated low risk of bias, and there was no significant concern related to applicability of the studies. CONCLUSIONS: According to the selected studies, multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH was considered a safe and effective tool, presenting higher sensitivity values than pHmetry regarding the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Análise da presença de formol e avaliação do ph de alisantes capilares / Analysis of presence of formol and ph assessment in hair straighteners

O processo de alisamento capilar é uma prática comum realizada nos salões de beleza. O procedimento exige a utilização de substâncias com capacidade de rompimento das cadeias dissulfídricas da fibra capilar com posterior modelamento para o efeito desejado, sendo o formol um dos compostos mais utilizados para esta finalidade, porém indevidamente. De acordo com a legislação vigente, o formol só pode ser utilizado em produtos cosméticos com a função de conservante em uma concentração máxima de 0,2%. Devido a seu uso incorreto em produtos capilares o presente trabalho teve como objetivo realizar uma análise semi-quantitativa da presença de formol em amostras de alisantes capilares, bem como verificar o pH destes produtos. Foram obtidas 22 amostras de alisantes capilares doadas por salões de beleza da região de Umuarama - PR. A determinação da presença de formol foi realizada através da reação de Shiff e comparação com escala colorimétrica de concentrações padronizadas de formaldeído variando de 0,005% a 10%. A verificação do pH foi realizada através da preparação de soluções aquosas de 10% do alisante e posterior aferição em pHmetro digital. Das amostras analisadas, verificou-se 22,72% encontraram-se em conformidade, apresentando quantidade de formaldeído adequada com a legislação (até 0,2%) ou ausência do composto, enquanto que 77,28% apresentaram valores acima do permitido. Já o pH adequado foi constatado em apenas 13,64% amostras. O uso incorreto ou exagerado do formol pode acarretar danos à saúde, como cefaléia, dispnéia, queimadura, edema pulmonar e até câncer. Uma maior fiscalização deve ser realizada nos estabelecimentos que realizam procedimentos de alisamento capilar, bem como nas indústrias produtoras e ainda em importadoras, para uma melhor garantia do cumprimento da legislação tanto para a preservação da saúde dos profissionais quando dos usuários.

The hair-straightening process is a common practice in most beauty salons. The procedure requires the use of substances capable of disrupting the disulfide chains of the hair fiber with subsequent modeling for the desired effect, with formaldehyde being one of the most commonly but improperly used compounds for this purpose. According to the current legislation, formaldehyde can only be used in cosmetic products as a preservative function in a maximum concentration of 0.2%. Due to its incorrect use in capillary products, this work has the purpose of developing a semi-quantitative analysis of the presence of formaldehyde in samples of hair straighteners, as well as verifying the pH of those products. Twenty-two samples of hair straighteners were donated by beauty salons from the region of Umuarama-PR. The determination of the presence of formaldehyde was performed using the Shiff reaction and compared using the colorimetric scale for standard formaldehyde concentrations varying from 0.005% to 10%. The pH verification was carried out by the preparation of 10% aqueous solutions of the straightener and subsequent measurement in a digital pH meter. From the analyzed samples, 22.72% were found to be in compliance, presenting the amount of formaldehyde within the legislation (up to 0.2%) or absence of the compound, while 77.28% presenting values above the legal limitations. Additionally, adequate pH was verified in only 13.64% of the samples. Incorrect or exaggerated use of formaldehyde can lead to health issues, such as headache, dyspnea, burns, pulmonary edema and even cancer. Greater surveillance should be carried out in establishments that perform hair straightening procedures as well as in the producing and importing industries in order to guarantee better compliance with the legislation both for the preservation of the health of professionals and users alike.

Characterisation of laryngo-pharyngeal reflux disease in old and ageing patients. / Caracterización de la enfermedad por reflujo faringolaríngeo en pacientes de edad avanzada y ancianos.

OBJECTIVES: To characterize laryngo-pharyngeal reflux (LPR) in patients over 60 years of age. METHODS: Retrospective review of patients over 60 years of age with symptoms suspicious of LPR, seen from 2005 to 2014 at an ENT Department of an academic hospital. Eighty-five consecutive patients (54 females, 31 males) who had completed a dual-sensor 24-hour pH-metry were included (considered "gold-standard" in LPR diagnosis). Body mass index, and reflux information and interventions were revised. pH-metries were evaluated according to DeMeester & Johnson's criteria. Symptoms were assessed according to the Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and classified as abnormal if score was ≥13. A naso-fibro-laryngoscopy enabled findings to be documented according to the Reflux Finding Score (RFS), and they were classified as abnormal if the score was ≥7. RESULTS: The patients' mean age was 67 years. A positive pH-metry was present in 70 patients (82.5%). Fifty patients (59%) had abnormal body mass index, and almost 90% of them had an abnormal pH-metry. Mean RSI score was 9.8, with abnormal results in 24 patients (28%). Only 20 patients (23%) with abnormal RSI had a positive pH-metry. Posterior commissure hypertrophy was the most common finding (90% of patients). Mean RFS score was 9.07, with abnormal results in 69 patients (81%). Sixty-one patients (70%) with abnormal RFS had a positive pH-metry. Only 18 patients (20%) had coincidental abnormal pH-metry, RSI, and RFS. CONCLUSIONS: In ageing patients, abnormal body mass index is strongly associated with abnormal pH-metry. RSI is a weak indicator of LPR, whereas RFS has a moderate value.

Relation between chronic rhinosinusitis and gastroesophageal reflux in adults: systematic review / Relação entre rinossinusite crônica e refluxo gastroesofágico em adultos: revisão sistemática

Abstract Introduction: The relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is still a controversial issue in literature. Objective: A systematic review of the association between these two diseases in adult patients. Methods: Systematic review in PubMed and Cochrane Database with articles published between 1951 and 2015. We included all articles that specifically studied the relationship between CRS and GERD. Results: Of the 436 articles found, only 12 met the inclusion criteria. Eight cross-sectional articles suggest a relation between CRS and GERD, especially on CRS that is refractory to clinical or surgical treatment. However, the groups are small and methodologies are different. Four other longitudinal studies have assessed the effect of treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) on the improvement of symptoms of CRS, but the results were conflicting. Conclusions: There seems to be relative prevalence of reflux with intractable CRS. There is still a lack of controlled studies with a significant number of patients to confirm this hypothesis. Few studies specifically assess the impact of treatment of reflux on symptom improvement in patients with CRS.

Resumo Introdução: A relação entre a Doença do Refluxo Gastroesofágico (DRGE) e a Rinossinusite Crônica (RSC) ainda é tema de controvérsia em literatura. Objetivo: Revisão sistemática sobre a associação entre essas duas doenças em pacientes adultos. Método: Revisão sistemática no Pubmed e Cochrane Database com os artigos publicados entre 1951 e 2015. Foram incluídos todos os artigos que estudassem especificamente a relação entre RSC e DRGE. Resultados: Dos 436 artigos encontrados, apenas 12 satisfaziam os critérios de inclusão. Oito artigos transversais sugerem relação da RSC com a DRGE, especialmente sobre a RSC refratária a tratamento clínico ou cirúrgico prévio. No entanto, os grupos são pequenos e as metodologias são muito diferentes. Outros quatro estudos longitudinais avaliaram o efeito do tratamento com Inibidores de Bomba de Prótons (IBP) sobre a melhora a dos sintomas de RSC, porém os resultados foram discordantes. Conclusões: Parece haver relação de prevalência de refluxo e RSC de difícil controle. Ainda faltam estudos controlados com um número expressivo de pacientes para que se confirme essa hipótese. São escassos os estudos que avaliem especificamente o impacto do tratamento de refluxo na melhora dos sintomas em pacientes com RSC.

Relation between chronic rhinosinusitis and gastroesophageal reflux in adults: systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: The relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is still a controversial issue in literature. OBJECTIVE: A systematic review of the association between these two diseases in adult patients. METHODS: Systematic review in PubMed and Cochrane Database with articles published between 1951 and 2015. We included all articles that specifically studied the relationship between CRS and GERD. RESULTS: Of the 436 articles found, only 12 met the inclusion criteria. Eight cross-sectional articles suggest a relation between CRS and GERD, especially on CRS that is refractory to clinical or surgical treatment. However, the groups are small and methodologies are different. Four other longitudinal studies have assessed the effect of treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) on the improvement of symptoms of CRS, but the results were conflicting. CONCLUSIONS: There seems to be relative prevalence of reflux with intractable CRS. There is still a lack of controlled studies with a significant number of patients to confirm this hypothesis. Few studies specifically assess the impact of treatment of reflux on symptom improvement in patients with CRS.

[Placement of pH-monitoring probes using height-related formulas. Is it an applicable method to adults?]. / Colocación de sondas de pHmetría mediante fórmula relacionada con la talla. ¿Es un método aplicable a los adultos?

INTRODUCTION: Oesophageal pH-monitoring allows the quantification of gastric reflux episodes in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The accuracy of the test depends on correct positioning of the pH sensor 5 cm above the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES). The most precise manner to locate the LES is through prior determination by oesophageal manometry. However, because this technique is uncomfortable, mathematical formulas tend to be used in children. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the applicability of paediatric formulas to estimate oesophageal length in adults and their effect on diagnostic accuracy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective study was carried out in adult patients, in whom the distance between the nasal orifice and the LES was determined by manometry and was compared with the estimated height-related distance calculated by four paediatric formulas (numbered 1 to 4). We also evaluated the relationship between the position of the probe and the percentage of reflux detected in our series of impedance measurements. RESULTS: Formula 1 (9.31 + height in cm × 0.197) was the most accurate (comparison of means -0.38 with 95%CI -0.70/-0.06, P = .019). With this formula, none of the patients had estimation errors of ± 6 cm. With formulas 2, 3 and 4, the percentage of error was 4.4%, 1.5% and 32.0%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Oesophageal length estimation in adults by using formula 1 is acceptable and can be used in adult patients who refuse to undergo prior manometry.

Efeito do treinamento muscular inspiratório na exposição ácida e na variabilidade da frequência cardíaca em indivíduos com esofagite de refluxo

INTRODUÇÃO: A doença do refluxo gastroesofágico (DRGE) é ocasionada pela presença do conteúdo gástrico na luz esofágica, Sua etiologia e patogenia são multifatoriais, porém dependem da integridade da barreira antirrefluxo na junção esôfago gástrica, composta pelo esfíncter esofágico inferior e o diafragma crural. A exemplo de todos os músculos esqueléticos, o diafragma pode melhorar sua performance em resposta a um treinamento. Alterações da função autonômica cardiovascular frequentemente se associam com alterações de motilidade e de sensibilidade do sistema digestivo. A variabilidade da frequência cardíaca tem sido empregada como recurso para a mensuração da atividade do sistema nervoso autônomo. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito do treinamento muscular inspiratório na exposição ácida e na variabilidade da frequência cardíaca em indivíduos com esofagite de refluxo. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo do tipo randomizado, experimental e intervencionista em humanos. Realizado no Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio (HUWC), com portadores de esofagite erosiva, os quais foram randomizados e distribuídos em dois grupos: o grupo treinamento sem carga (TSC) e grupo treinamento com carga (TCC). Os voluntários fizeram treinamento muscular inspiratório (TMI), 3 vezes por semana, durante 8 semanas. Foram avaliados sintomas do refluxo, PImáx, exposição ácida do esôfago pela pHmetria e os componentes da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC) no domínio do tempo (SDNN, rMSSD, pNN50) e no domínio da frequência (VLF, LF, HF) pelo eletrocardiograma. Os dados obtidos foram analisados estatisticamente pelo programa SigmaPlot, versão 11.0 e pelo programa GraphPad Prism®6.0...

BACKGROUND: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is caused by the presence of gastric contents in the esophagus lumen, its etiology and pathogenesis is multifactorial, but depend on the integrity of the antireflux barrier at the junction gastric esophagus, composed of the lower esophageal sphincter and crural diaphragm. Like all skeletal muscles, the diaphragm can improve performance in response to training. Changes in cardiovascular autonomic function frequently associated with alterations of motility and sensitivity of the digestive system. The heart rate variability has been used as a resource for the measurement of the activity of the autonomic nervous system. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectof inspiratory muscle training in acid exposure and heart rate variability in patients with reflux esophagitis. METHODS: This is a study a randomized, experimental and interventionist in humans. Held at the University Hospital Walter Cantídio (HUWC) with holders of erosive esophagitis, which were randomly divided into two groups: the no-load training group (NLT) and group training load (LT). The volunteers did inspiratory muscle training (IMT) three times per week, for 8 weeks. We evaluated symptoms of reflux, MIP, acid exposure of the esophagus by pH monitoring and the components of heart rate variability (HRV) in the time domain (SDNN, rMSSD, pNN50) and in the frequency domain (VLF, LF, HF) by electrocardiogram . Data were statistically analyzed by SigmaPlot, version 11.0 and the program GraphPad PRISM ® 6.0...

Reflujo faringolaríngeo: revisión de los nuevos métodos diagnósticos / Laryngopharyngeal reflux: a review of new diagnostic methods

El reflujo faringo laríngeo (RFL), es una causa común de morbilidad del tracto aerodigestivo superior. A pesar de su alta prevalencia, aún existe controversia respecto de la precisión diagnóstica de esta enfermedad, así como de su fisiopatología y manejo. Los test diagnósticos actuales aún presentan limitaciones significativas, de ahí que surja el interés por encontrar métodos rápidos y eficientes que mejoren su pesquisa. El presente trabajo tiene por objeto la revisión de la literatura actual en cuanto a los métodos disponibles para su diagnóstico.

The laryngopharyngeal reflux is a common cause of morbidity of the upper aerodigestive tract. Despite its high prevalence, there is still controversy regarding the diagnostic accuracy of this disease and its pathophysiology and management. The current diagnostic test still have significant limitations, hence the interest arises to find fast and efficient methods to improve their research. This paper aims to review the current literature regarding available methods for diagnosis.

Estudo comparativo para avaliação de cateter de pHmetria com novo sistema de referência interna na prática clínica / Comparative study to evaluate pH electrodes with new system of built-in reference in clinical practice

Introdução: pHmetria esofágica é um método importante para avaliação direta do refluxo ácido gastroesofágico. Os aparelhos convencionais de pHmetria usam cateteres de referência externa, que podem gerar grandes diferenças nas medidas de pH. Desenvolvemos, em nosso meio, eletrodo de referência interna construído com matriz metálica/polimérica para uso em cateteres de pHmetria. Objetivos: avaliar comparativamente escore de DeMeester, tempo total, supino e ereto de pH menor que quatro, utilizando simultaneamente cateteres de antimônio com eletrodo de referência externa e interna em um mesmo indivíduo. Métodos: entre julho e dezembro de 2013 selecionamos os 16 participantes do estudo. Cada participante foi submetido simultaneamente a dois exames de pHmetria prolongada (um com eletrodo de referência interno e outro com eletrodo de referência externo). Para avaliar os resultados obtidos com cateteres de referência interna e externa utilizamos o teste de Wilcoxon Signed Rank. Resultados: a idade média de nossa população foi de 34,2 anos, sendo 56,2% do sexo feminino. Para avaliar os resultados obtidos com cateteres de pHmetria com referência interna e externa, utilizamos o teste de Wilcoxon Signed Rank. A diferença de valores de pH menor que quatro no tempo total, em posições supina e ereta, bem como o escore de DeMeester, foram muito semelhantes nos exames com eletrodo de referência interna e externa realizados simultaneamente em um mesmo paciente. Conclusão: os cateteres de pHmetria com eletrodo de referência externa e com novo sistema de referência interna comportaram-se de forma semelhante e registraram resultados similares. Vantagens descritas na literatura em relação a cateteres de pHmetria com referência interna deverão ser avaliadas em estudos futuros.

Introduction: esophageal pH monitoring is a very important tool to evaluate gastroesophageal reflux disease. Conventional pH recording equipment uses electrodes with external reference and is associated with great differences in pH measurements. We developed a pH electrode built-in reference, based on a matrix ceramic/metallic/polymeric. Objectives: to compare data of DeMeester scores, total, supine and orthostatic time of pH under four, using simultaneously, in the same patient pH electrodes with external reference and built-in reference. Methods: between July and December 2013 we enrolled 16 patients. Each participant was submitted simultaneously to two prolonged monitoring pH study using electrodes with external and built-in reference. To evaluate the results of the exams performed simultaneously in the same patient we used the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test. Results: the participants median age was 34.2 years, 56.2% women. To evaluate the results of the exams performed simultaneously in the same patient we used the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test. The results of DeMeester score and the data of pH under four, in total, supine and orthostatic time, were similar in recordings using electrode with external reference and built-in reference. Conclusion: performance of pH electrodes with external and in-built reference was similar. Future studies will evaluate vantages of pH electrode built-in reference.

Manometric parameters in patients with suspected gastroesophageal reflux disease and normal pH monitoring / Parâmetros manométricos em pacientes com suspeita de doença do refluxo gastroesofágico e pHmetria normal

Background: pH monitoring is the gold standard test for the evaluation of Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) but esophageal manometry is classically not indicated for making or confirming a suspected diagnosis of GERD. This study aims to evaluate the manometric findings in patients with suspected GERD and normal pH monitoring. Methods: 100 adult patients with suspected GERD were retrospectively studied. Patients were divided in Group A: normal reflux score (n=60, 72% women, mean age 51 years) and Group B: abnormal reflux score (n=40, 70% women, mean age 54 years). All patients underwent an upper endoscopy, esophageal manometry and pH monitoring. Results: heartburn was more frequent in group B and epigastric pain was more frequent in the group A, while the prevalence of other symptoms was similar between groups. Abnormal endoscopy, hiatal hernia and esophagitis were more frequent in group B with significant risk for GERD. Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) length and pressure were lower in patients from group B. Esophageal motility was similar between groups. Conclusions: our results show that: (1) symptoms are unreliable to diagnose GERD, (2) abnormal endoscopy is more frequent in patients with GERD, (3) LES length and pressure are decreased in patients with GERD, and (4) patients with clinical predictors for GERD are not more likely to have manometric parameters to suggest GERD.

Introdução: a pHmetria é o padrão ouro na avaliação da doença do refluxo gastroesofágico (DRGE), porém, a manometria não é, classicamente, indicada para diagnosticar ou confirmar suspeita de DRGE. Este estudo visa avaliar os achados manométricos em pacientes com DRGE e pHmetria normal. Método: foram estudados retrospectivamente 100 pacientes adultos com suspeita de DRGE. Foram divididos em grupo A: índice de refluxo normal (n=60, 72% mulheres, idade média 51 anos) e grupo B: índice de refluxo anormal (n=40, 70% mulheres, idade média 54 anos). Todos os pacientes fizeram endoscopia, manometria e pHmetria esofágicas. Resultados: pirose foi mais frequente no grupo B e epigastralgia no grupo A, enquanto que a prevalência dos demais sintomas foi similar entre os grupos. Endoscopia anormal, hérnia de hiato e esofagite foram mais frequentes no grupo B, com risco significante para DRGE. O comprimento e a pressão do esfíncter esofagiano inferior foram menores nos pacientes do grupo B. A motilidade esofágica foi similar entre os grupos. Conclusão: nossos resultados mostram que: 1 - os sintomas não são discriminatórios no diagnóstico de DRGE; 2 - endoscopia anormal é mais frequente em pacientes com DRGE; 3 - comprimento e pressão do esfíncter esofagiano inferior foram menores em pacientes com DRGE, e 4 - pacientes com preditores clínicos para DRGE não têm necessariamente achados manométricos que possam sugerir a DRGE.

Sindrome de sandifer: a propósito de la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico en niños / Sandifer syndrome and gastroesophageal reflux in childre

El Síndrome de Sandifer es un trastorno neuroconductual con movimientos de hiperextensión de cuello, cabeza y tronco, con rotación de cabeza, que generalmente se presentan durante o inmediatamente después de la ingesta de alimentos y cesa durante el sueño, secundario a enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico. Se caracteriza por esofagitis, anemia por deficiencia de hierro y son confundidos con frecuencia como crisis de origen epiléptico. Lactante masculino de 5 meses referido por movimientos de tónico-clónicos generalizados, de segundos de duración, con una frecuencia de 30 episodios al día, que no ceden con el uso de 3 anticonvulsivantes. Disfagia a alimentos pastosos. Hospitalización al mes de vida por episodio de amenazante de la vida. Estudios neurológicos normales. Paraclínica: anemia microcítica e hipocrómica. Videodeglutoscopia: Disfagia de fase oral leve, disfagia fase esofágica a estudiar (Regurgitación), reflujo faringolaringeo según escala de Belafsky y Larigomalacia grado I; pHmetría de 24 horas con impedancia, puntación de Boix-Ochoa de 26%, durante la colocación de la sonda se observo posición anómala de la cabeza e hiperextensión del dorso. Estudio contrastado de esófago, estómago y duodeno sin anormalidad anatómica. Endoscopia digestiva superior: Esofagitis no erosiva, Hernia hiatal. El Síndrome de Sandifer es una de las presentaciones atípicas de RGE en lactantes. Amerita la evaluación de un equipo multidisciplinario para establecer el diagnóstico. El manejo medico incluyó medidas antireflujo, esomeprazol y técnica de alimentación adecuada con evolución satisfactoria. La diversidad de enfermedades relacionadas con RGE exige el uso de variadas técnicas para lograr diagnósticos más asertivos

Sandifer's syndrome is a neurobehavioral disorder with hyperextension movements of neck, head and trunk, head rotation, which usually occur during or immediately after food intake and ceases during sleep, secondary to gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is characterized by esophagitis, anemia and iron deficiency are often confused as a crisis of epileptic origin. A male infant of 5 months reported by tonic-clonic movements of widespread, lasting seconds, with a frequency of 30 episodes per day, which do not yield with the use of 3 anticonvulsants. Pasty food dysphagia. Hospitalization month of life-threatening episode of life. Normal neurological studies. Paraclinical: hypochromic microcytic anemia. Videodeglutoscopia: mild oral phase dysphagia, esophageal dysphagia to study phase (regurgitation), pharyngolaryngeal reflux as Belafsky and Larigomalacia scale grade I, ph-metry of 24 hours with impedance, Boix-Ochoa score of 26% during the placement of probe was observed abnormal head position and hyperextension of the back. Contrast study of esophagus, stomach and duodenum without anatomical abnormality. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: nonerosive esophagitis, hiatal hernia. Sandifer Syndrome is one of the atypical presentations of GER in infants. Warrants evaluation by a multidisciplinary team to establish the diagnosis. The medical management included antireflux measures, esomeprazole and proper feeding technique with satisfactory outcome. The diversity of diseases associated with GER requires the use of various diagnostic techniques to get more assertive

Impedâncio-pHmetria prolongada: observações preliminares / Extended impedance-pHmetry: preliminary observation

Racional: a Doença do Refluxo Gastroesofágico (DRGE) é uma doença de alta prevalência em todo o mundo, apresentando elevada taxa de morbidade. O diagnóstico da DRGE tem evoluído muito nos últimos anos e a pHmetria esofagiana prolongada atualmente é considerada o padrão-ouro para este diagnóstico. Entretanto, este método é limitado, uma vez que avalia apenas a presença do refluxo ácido, não detectando o refluxo de outros tipos. Com a ampla utilização das drogas antissecretoras, surgiu um grupo diferente de pacientes, aqueles que persistem com sintomas típicos e/ou atípicos da DRGE, apesar do tratamento adequado. Em tais casos, questiona-se a importância de outros fatores na gênese dos sintomas, como o refluxo não-ácido ou fracamente ácido. Nos últimos anos, a impedâncio-pHmetria 24h (IMP-PH) foi introduzida para diagnosticar estes casos. Entretanto, a real contribuição do método ainda é muito controversa, uma vez que os resultados dos estudos realizados são conflitantes e o número de pacientes incluídos nestes estudos pequenos. Objetivo: avaliar a experiência prévia da Unidade de Esôfago, Serviço de Gastroenterologia, da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, no uso da IMP-PH. Métodos: Este é um estudo de corte, transversal, que avaliou pacientes encaminhados à Unidade de Esôfago, da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro para serem submetidos á IMP-PH. Todos os pacientes estudados persistiam com sintomas da DRGE (típicos ou atípicos) e já haviam sido submetidos previamente à endoscopia digestiva alta, esofagomanometria (EMN) e à pHmetria esofagiana de 24h, sem esclarecimento da causa dos seus sintomas. Um gravador portátil foi empregado (Sleuth 200-0145, Sandhill Scientific), com um cateter de 2,1 milímetros de diâmetro, um sensor de pH e seis pares de eletrodos de impedância. Com o paciente em jejum, a sonda foi introduzida através de uma das narinas e o sensor de pH posicionado 5 cm acima do esfíncter esofagiano inferior (EEI) previamente determinado pela EMN. As medidas de impedância foram feitas 3, 5, 7, 9, 15 e 17 centímetros acima do EEI. Os pacientes foram instruídos a não restringir suas atividades, para excluir alimentos ácidos e bebidas carbonatadas, e a anotar as horas de decúbito, a ingestão de alimentos e os sintomas. Eles também foram instruídos a pressionar botões específicos, se eles apresentassem sintomas como dor torácica, tosse e/ou azia. Após 22-24h, o paciente retornava ao laboratório, o equipamento era retirado e, em seguida, o exame processado pelo software Bioview. Além disso, era informado o uso (IBP em dose dupla) ou não de medicação antissecretora. No caso de um exame feito sem medicação, os inibidores da bomba de prótons (IBP) foram interrompidos 7-10 dias antes do exame. Com relação à impedância, considerou-se inicio do episódio de refluxo quando havia uma queda retrógrada na impedância de pelo menos 50% em relação ao seu valor basal e término do refluxo quando este valor voltava ao seu nível basal anterior. Na ausência de drogas antissecretoras, considerou-se refluxo anormal quando o número de episódios de refluxo registrados pela impedância foi superior a 73 e para o monitoramento do pH quando a percentagem de tempo total pH <4 foi acima de 4,5%. Naqueles pacientes em uso de IBP em dose dupla, considerou-se refluxo anormal quando o número de episódios de refluxo foi superior a 48 e o percentual de tempo total de pH < 4 foi superior a 1,6%. Para avaliar a relação refluxo / sintoma, empregou-se o Índice de Sintomas (IS), sendo considerado positivo quando igual ou superior a 50%. Resultados: Foram incluídos 30 pacientes, 14 homens (47%) e 16 mulheres (53%), com média de idade de 56 anos (36-79). Tosse crônica foi a principal queixa - 14 pacientes (47%) - seguidos de azia apesar do uso do IBP em oito (27%), dor torácica em 5 (17%) regurgitação em 1 (3%), rouquidão em 1 (3%) e soluços em 1 (3%). Dos 30 pacientes estudados, o teste foi realizado em uso do IBP em 17 e sem IBP em 13. A IMP-PH mostrou que 15 pacientes (50%) apresentavam refluxo anormal, sendo anormal ácido em 7 (23%) e anormal não-ácido em 8 (27%). Dos 15 pacientes em que o teste foi anormal, 7 (47%) apresentaram refluxo anormal ácido, e destes apenas um (14%) apresentou IS positivo, 4 (57%) apresentaram IS negativo e 2 (29%) não apresentaram sintomas. Nos 8 pacientes (53%) com refluxo anormal não-ácido, 4 (50%) apresentaram IS positivo, 3 (38%) apresentaram IS negativo (12%) e 1 (12%) foi assintomático. Conclusão: a IMP-PH é um novo método capaz de avaliar o refluxo anormal de qualquer natureza química e sua relação com sintomas típicos e atípicos da DRGE, especialmente nos pacientes em uso do IBP. Além disso, permite avaliar os pacientes onde a pH 24h apresenta limitações (refluxo não-ácido), representando o progresso para o diagnóstico da DRGE. Entretanto, o significado real do refluxo não-ácido, ainda está por ser determinado.

Background: the gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a highly prevalent disease worldwide, with high morbidity. The diagnosis of GERD has evolved greatly in recent years and esophageal pHmetry 24h (pH24H) is currently considered the gold standard for diagnosis. However, this method is limited, since evaluates only acid reflux, not detect another types of reflux. With the widespread use of anti-secretory drugs, came a different group of patients, those who persist with typical or atypical GERD symptoms, despite adequate treatment. In such cases, arise the importance of other factors in the genesis of symptoms as non-acid or weakly acid reflux. In recent years, the impedance-pHmetry 24h (IMP-PH) was introduced to diagnose these cases. However, the real contribution of the method is controversial, since the results of the studies are conflicting and the number of patients enrolled in these studies small. Objective: assess previous experience of Esophagus Unit, Gastroenterology Service, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, using IMP-PH. Method: This is a cross-sectional study, that evaluated patients referred to the Esophagus Unit of Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, to be submitted to IMP-PH. All patients had GERD persisting symptoms (typical or atypical) and had previously undergone upper endoscopy, esophageal manometry (EMN) and pH24h, without clarification of the cause of your symptoms. A portable recorder was used (200-0145 Sleuth, Sandhill Scientific), with a catheter of 2.1 mm in diameter, a pH sensor and six pairs of impedance electrodes. With the fasting patient, the probe was introduced through one nostril and the pH sensor positioned 5 cm above the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) previously determined by EMN. The impedance measurements were made 3,5,7,9,15 and 17 cm above the LES. Patients were instructed not to restrict their activities, exclude acidic foods and carbonated beverages, and record the hours of recumbency, food intake and symptoms. They were also instructed to press specific buttons, if they had symptoms such as chest pain, cough and or heartburn. After 22-24h, the patient returned to the laboratory, recorder was removed and then processed by the software Bioview. Furthermore, was reported use (IBP double dose) or absence of antisecretory drugs. In the case of a test done without medication, proton pump inhibitors (PPI) were stopped 7-10 days before the test. With respect to impedance, it is considered the start of reflux episode when there was a retrograde fall in impedance at least 50% compared to baseline level and end of reflux when the value returned to previous baseline level. In the absence of anti-secretory drugs, it was considered abnormal reflux when the number of reflux episodes recorded by impedance was greater than 73 and pH monitoring when the percentage of total time pH <4 was above 4.5%. In those patients using double-dose PPI, abnormal reflux was considered when the number of reflux episodes was greater than 48 and the percentage of total time pH <4 was greater than 1.6%. To evaluate the relationship reflux / symptom, we used the Symptom Index (IS), was considered positive when above 50%. Results: We included 30 patients, 14 men (47%) and 16 women (53%), mean age 56 years (36-79). Chronic cough was the main complaint - 14 patients (47%) - followed by heartburn despite the use of PPI in eight (27%), chest pain in 5 (17%) regurgitation in 1 (3%), hoarseness in 1 (3 %) and hiccups 1 (3%). Of the 30 patients tested, the test was performed using PPI in 17 and without PPI in 13. The IMP-PH showed abnormal reflux in 15 patients (50%), these 7 (23%) was abnormal acid and 8 (27%) abnormal non-acid. Of the 15 patients in whom the test was abnormal, 7 (47%) had abnormal acid reflux, and of these only one (14%) presented positive IS, 4 (57%) negative IS and 2 (29%) were asymptomatic. In 8 patients (53%) with abnormal reflux non-acid, 4 (50%) were positive IS, 3 (38%) negative IS (12%) and 1 (12%) was asymptomatic. Conclusion: the IMP-PH is a new method to evaluate the abnormal reflux of any chemical nature and its relationship with typical or atypical GERD symptoms, especially in patients using PPI. In addition, evaluate patients where pH24h has limitations (non-acid reflux), representing progress in the diagnosis of GERD. However, the real meaning of non-acid reflux, is yet to be determined.