Strengths of the study
Unlike previous studies, this study analyzed various parameters of 24-h
MII-pH monitoring in patients with LPR responding well and refractory to
PPI therapy prospectively. We focused on parameters, such as proximal
all reflux time and proximal longest reflux time, which are apt to be
overlooked in 24-h MII-pH monitoring when diagnosing LPR. We also
compared the responder rates and treatment periods in patients with no
reflux and those with LPR to assess the usefulness of empirical PPI
therapy and the need for 24-h MII-pH monitoring in patients with
suspected LPR.