International consensus (ICON) on assessment of oropharyngeal dysphagia

Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) in Head and Neck Cancer Patients with Late Radiation-Associated Dysphagia: Swallowing Safety, Efficacy, and Dysphagia Phenotype

Late radiation-associated dysphagia (late-RAD) remains a challenge in head and neck cancer (HNC) survivorship, despite advancements in treatment methods. Although Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) stands as the preferred diagnostic approach for oropharyngeal dysphagia assessment in the HNC population, current studies lack a FEES-derived swallowing parameter characterization and phenotypic classification within this specific cohort. This study sought to employ FEES-based assessment to characterize swallowing safety and efficacy profiles, identify distinct phenotypes in HNC patients suffering from late-RAD, and examine potential correlations between safety and efficacy parameters. A retrospective analysis included twenty-four post-radiotherapy HNC patients evaluated using standardized FEES protocols across three bolus consistencies (liquid, semisolid, and solid). Swallowing safety was quantified using the Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS), while efficacy was measured via the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale (YPRSRS). Additionally, six distinct dysphagia phenotypes were characterized within the cohort. Propulsion deficit was the predominant phenotype (92%), followed by delayed pharyngeal phase (37.5%) and protective deficit (25%), with 46% of patients exhibiting multiple phenotypes. Unsafe swallowing occurred most frequently with liquid consistency (62.5%), while residue was most prevalent with semisolid (82.6% valleculae, 52.2% pyriform sinuses) and solid consistencies (92.3% valleculae, 53.8% pyriform sinuses). Significant correlations were found between penetration-aspiration and pharyngeal residue scores across consistencies (p < 0.05). FEES examination revealed distinct phenotypes in late radiation-associated dysphagia, with a predominance of propulsion deficit and significant interdependence between safety and efficacy parameters.

Evaluation Methods of Dysphagia in Adults With Intellectual Disability: A Scoping Review

Dysphagia is a serious but underdiagnosed health-related condition in people with intellectual disability (ID). In this scoping review, we provide an overview of dysphagia evaluation methods used in adults with ID. The data from 31 studies were analyzed qualitatively by identifying the evaluation methods and the validity and reliability of the methods. To summarize, dysphagia has been evaluated in many ways and for different purposes. The most common evaluation method was a videofluorographic swallowing study (VFSS). Four of the reviewed methods were found to be valid and reliable in detecting swallowing problems in adults with ID.

The Effects of Adding Particles in Texture Modified Food on Tongue Strength and Swallowing Function in Patients with Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Proof of Concept Study

The use of texture modified food (TMF) is widely spread in the daily care of patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD). However, TMF have been shown to have a negative impact on the patients' quality of life. Adherence rates are low, increasing the risk of malnutrition and aspiration in an already vulnerable patient population. The aim of this exploratory study was to gain insight in the feasibility of adding particles to pureed food on tongue strength, swallowing safety and efficiency in patients with OD. Ten adult participants with OD swallowed three different boluses. Bolus 1 consisted of no particles (IDDSI level 4), small and bigger particles were added in bolus 2 and 3. Tongue strength during swallowing (Pswal) was measured using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI). Swallow safety (penetration and aspiration) and swallow efficiency (residu) were quantified during fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing by means of the PAS scale and Pooling score. RM Anova and Friedman tests were performed for analyzing the impact of bolus on the outcome parameters. No significant effect of bolus type on Pswal was measured. Neither the PAS nor the Pooling score differed significantly between the three different boluses. Aspiration was never observed during swallowing any bolus with particles. This preliminary study shows that the addition of particles to pureed food had no impact on Pswal, swallowing efficiency or safety in patients with OD. This innovative project is the first step in research to explore the characteristics of TMF beyond bolus volume, viscosity and temperature.

Post-stroke dysphagia: identifying the evidence missing

Dysphagia is a high-profile dysfunction that often occurs after a stroke, with a prevalence of 50%-80%. Post-stroke dysphagia (PSD) often leads to serious complications such as pneumonia and malnutrition, reducing the quality of life and leading to poor prognosis or even death. PSD causes these adverse physical and psychological impairments to patients, which becomes a challenge for both patients and physicians. This review intends to contribute to the international debate on evidence-based options on Stroke Rehabilitation and to better understand the need for further research on PSD and summarizing evidence on some of the most relevant topics and clarifying its clinical practice value for Neurology, stroke rehabilitation experts, rehabilitation and nursing staff, as well as patients. The article identifies and discusses the gaps in knowledge on PSD and elaborates on current evidence concerning the selection of subjects, examination methods, patient data extraction and analysis, classification of stroke lesions, details of dysphagia, significance of results, and neuromodulation of dysphagia, from the perspective of rehabilitation physicians. The review identified a set of 10 points and parameters for the international debate on PSD, namely: stroke onset, cognitive impairment, feeding method, contrast medium, swallowing reflex delay, swallowing evaluation form, division of brainstem, multiple stroke sites, basal ganglia lesions and neuromodulation techniques. The article explores available evidence on factors associated with dysphagia and stroke site. Although there is plenty of evidence exploring the correlation between stroke site and swallowing disorders, the pathophysiological mechanisms between the two are complex, and expert interpretations of the evidence and clinical opinions vary on which swallowing abnormalities occur. The study generates evidence on current evidence-based options on Stroke Rehabilitation and a better understanding of the need for further research on Post-Stroke Dysphagia. Taking a patient-centric approach, the ultimate goal is to generate on how can available evidence influence policy or practice or research or clinical education. The article provides a structured discussion clarifying key points on the relationship between stroke lesions and swallowing dysfunctions and contributes to clarifying the gaps in evidence to further improve the quality of life of the patients suffering from Post-Stroke Dysphagia.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Newly Diagnosed Head-and-Neck Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

Head-and-neck cancer (HNC) can cause oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD). Early identification of OD in newly diagnosed HNC patients is important to better prepare patients for their cancer treatment trajectory. The aim of this study is (1) to assess the prevalence of OD in HNC patients within three weeks before the start of cancer treatment and (2) to investigate which demographic and oncological characteristics may be risk factors associated with the risk of OD at baseline.

METHODS

Patients (N = 225) completed the Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10) and Short Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire (SNAQ). Logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the association between OD versus demographic and oncological characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 21.3% (proportion 0.213; 95% CI 0.163-0.274) of the patients were at risk for OD. After correction for age, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) grade, and primary tumor location, a significant association was found between advanced-stage cancer versus the risk of OD. Additionally, post hoc analysis revealed a significant association between the risk of malnutrition versus the risk of OD.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately one-fifth of all newly diagnosed HNC patients are at risk of OD, with advanced-stage cancer and malnutrition emerging as significant risk factors of OD. These findings empower health professionals toward more effective screening and management of a patient's risk profile before the start of HNC treatment.

Understanding user experience and normative data in pharyngeal residue rating scales used in flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES): A scoping review

PURPOSE

Pharyngeal residue rating scales are often used to rate pharyngeal residue observed during flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing. Despite the widespread use of pharyngeal residue rating scales, there is no data that has systematically explored user experience. The aim of this scoping review was to investigate specific reporting of user experience, user centred design principles, and normative data in the development of pharyngeal residue rating scales.

METHOD

A scoping review was conducted across four electronic databases inclusive of all dates until June 2024. Grey literature searching occurred in March-April 2023 and was repeated in June 2024. This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) protocol. Titles/abstracts, full texts, and data extraction were reviewed by two independent reviewers.

RESULT

A total of 22 sources were included, with 18 unique pharyngeal residue rating scales identified. Two studies referred to user experience, seven included at least one user centred design principle, and four studies reported on normative data.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this review highlight few pharyngeal residue rating scales include the experience of the intended user and establish normative data in the initial development phase. User experience, user centred design principles, and normative data may be useful considerations to optimise functionality.

Interpretation of Sydney Swallow Questionnaire results using the oropharyngeal dysphagia risk matrix

BACKGROUND

Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) commonly occurs in neuromuscular diseases (NMD). Appropriate management involves early detection, clinical evaluation, and tailored follow-up to minimize complications. Various assessment tools exist, including the Sydney Swallow Questionnaire (SSQ), a patient-reported outcome measure for assessing OD severity in adult patients. This paper proposes utilizing an innovative risk matrix (OD-Risk-Matrix) to enhance SSQ interpretation. This matrix categorizes OD risk for each SSQ question, offering valuable assistance to clinicians.

METHODS

This study analyzes SSQ results from a cohort of individuals with NMD (n = 57). Patients filled in the SSQ during outpatient visits at our neuromuscular center. Subsequently, SSQ scores were grouped by NMD conditions and interpreted using the OD-Risk-Matrix categorizing each question's risk as low, moderate, or high. This matrix is based on the SSQ results by categorizing the risk of OD for each question, as well as the likelihood of occurrence of OD.

KEY RESULTS

In light of the OD-Risk-Matrix, the interpretation of SSQ scores revealed various risk categories associated with each question, while also highlighting distinct OD characteristics and discrepancies among the different NMDs.

CONCLUSION AND INFERENCES

In conclusion, the OD-Risk-Matrix offers a framework for interpreting the SSQ, revealing variations in the risks of OD among different questions in patients with NMD. This novel approach could be a valuable tool in SSQ interpretation to identify specific fields of OD and could lead to a tailored management plan, prioritizing interventions aimed at reducing the risk of aspiration, ensuring proper nutrition, and enhancing swallowing safety and efficiency.

Impact of Modified Diet, Swallowing Exercises, and Electrostimulation on Quality of Life of Older Patients Suffering from Oropharyngeal Dysphagia

Background and Objectives: Oropharyngeal dysphagia is defined as a swallowing disorder in which it becomes difficult to form a bolus and move food from the mouth to the proximal part of the esophagus. Several factors can cause this disorder in geriatric patients. With oropharyngeal dysphagia, the patient's social isolation and the risk of depression increase, while the quality of life deteriorates. Materials and Methods: In this study, oropharyngeal dysphagia was suspected based on the EAT-10 questionnaire and diagnosed with the water drink test and endoscopic swallowing evaluation, which assesses the aspiration risk by using an eight-point Penetration-Aspiration scale. Patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia received complex treatment: exercises to strengthen the swallowing muscles, electrostimulation of the swallowing muscles, and a modified diet. The quality of life of 64 patients was assessed by using the DHI, SWAL-QoL, and EAT-10 questionnaires before complex treatment and after treatment. The results show that the quality of life improved after the complex treatment of oropharyngeal dysphagia. Results: The mean age of patients was 77.8 (9.1) years, and 56.3% of patients were women. At baseline, mild oropharyngeal dysphagia was found in 18.8% of patients; moderate-in 51.6%; and severe-in 29.7%. Aspiration risk was low in 28.1% of patients; medium-in 39.1%; and high-in 32.8%. The severity of oropharyngeal dysphagia and aspiration risk significantly decreased after treatment (p = 0.002). The EAT-10 score mean was 15.23 (8.92) points before treatment and decreased to 11.50 (6.12) points after treatment (p < 0.001). Before treatment, the DHI physical score was 15.75 (6.813), the DHI functional score was 14.56 (8.659), and the DHI emotional score was 11.06 (7.848) (p < 0.001), and after complex treatment, the DHI physical score was 14.56 (8.659), the DHI functional score was 9.74 (7.165), and the DHI emotional score was 7.94 (6.588) (p < 0.001). The total SWAL-QoL score mean was 132.71 (34.392) points before treatment and increased to 152.42 (30.547) points after treatment (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Complex treatment of oropharyngeal dysphagia plays an important role in improving the quality of life and reducing aspiration risk in older people affected by this condition.

Development of a Dutch Version of the Sydney Swallow Questionnaire: Assessing Oropharyngeal Dysphagia Severity in Dutch-Speaking Populations

Aims

The oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) poses substantial health risks and affects quality of life. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are gaining prominence for their crucial role in early detection and adapting rehabilitation and management decisions. This highlights the need for culturally pertinent versions in different languages, especially when addressing conditions like OD. This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and assess the test-retest reliability of the Sydney Swallow Questionnaire (SSQ), a PROM designed to detect the risk of OD, for Dutch-speaking populations.

Materials and Methods

The SSQ was translated and adapted based on Beaton's guidelines. Validity and test-retest reliability were assessed in 100 healthy participants, with a subset of 30 participants assessed over a 15-day interval. Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) values were calculated to determine test-retest reliability.

Results

The SSQ-Dutch was well received and well understood, with a median total score of 65.5/1700. Notably, 95% of participants scored below the established dysphagia risk cut-off, consistent with previous validations. The 15-day interval ICC for the SSQ-Dutch total scores was 0.82 (CI 95%: 0.66-0.91), indicating good reliability. While most questions had moderate-to-good reliability, five showed slightly lower ICC.

Conclusion

The SSQ-Dutch emerges as a validated and reliable tool for assessing OD risk in Dutch-speaking individuals. Future studies should evaluate its efficacy in symptomatic populations and consider cultural variations in Dutch-speaking regions.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12070-024-04484-3.

Manual Therapy of Dysphagia in a Patient with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Case Report

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable rare neurodegenerative condition, with 45% of cases showing the symptom of dysphagia; its clinical signs are atrophy, weakness, and fasciculations of the facial muscles, tongue, and pharynx. Furthermore, dysphagia is the main cause of aspiration pneumonia. The traditional treatment for dysphagia varies based on the patient's difficulty of swallowing. The initial phase consists of dietary consistency adjustments, progressing to alternatives like nasogastric tubes or percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) in advanced stages. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a complementary 'hands-on' approach that has already shown positive results as an add-on therapy in various health conditions. This study is a case report of a man diagnosed with ALS with initial dysphagia, managed with a protocol that extraordinarily included OMT. The patient showed somatic dysfunctions in the mediastinal region, upper cervical region, and occipital area which are all anatomically related to the nervous system, especially the glossopharyngeal reflex. At the end of the rehabilitation protocol, there was a reduction in the swallowing problems measured with Strand Scale and swallowing tests, and the patient reported an improved psycho-physical well-being assessed with the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Assessment Questionnaire (ALSAQ-40). Instead, the neurological function measured with ALSFRS-S remained stable. Although the nature of this study design prevents any causal assumption, the positive results should lead to future randomized controlled trials to assess the effectiveness of OMT as an adjunctive therapeutic proposal to improve the health of ALS patients.

Characterization of pharyngeal contractile integral using pharyngeal manometry in children

OBJECTIVES

Pharyngeal contractile integral (PhCI) is the product of mean pharyngeal contractile amplitude, length, and duration, and provides a single metric for the vigor of entire pharyngeal contraction. A major limitation in children is lack of characterization of PhCI on high-resolution pharyngeal manometry. We aimed to determine and compare the values of PhCI in children with the abnormal and normal videofluoroscopic study of swallow (VFSS).

METHODS

Children who underwent high-resolution pharyngeal and esophageal manometry (HRPM/HREM), as well as VFSS, were divided into two groups; "normal VFSS" and "abnormal VFSS" groups. PhCI was calculated from the pharyngo-esophageal manometry analysis software (MMS, v9.5, Laborie Medical Technologies), and compared in these two groups.

RESULTS

Of 67 children, 9 had abnormal VFSS (mean age 64 ± 50 months; 66.7% males), while 58 had normal VFSS (mean age 123 ± 55 months; 47% males). The mean PhCI in abnormal and normal VFSS groups was 82.00 ± 51.90 and 147.28 ± 53.89 mmHg.s.cm, respectively (p = 0.001). Subjects with abnormal VFSS were significantly younger than those with normal VFSS (p = 0.003). However, after adjusting for the VFSS result, age was no longer related to PhCI (p = 0.364). In subgroup analysis of children presenting with dysphagia, the mean PhCI in abnormal (9 subjects) and normal (36 subjects) VFSS groups was 82.00 ± 51.90 and 141.86 ± 50.39 mmHg.s.cm, respectively (p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

PhCI was significantly lower in children with abnormal VFSS than in those with normal VFSS. We did not find a significant impact of age on PhCI in our pediatric populations.

Risk of Aspiration Increased by Post-swallow Residue in Infant Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)

OBJECTIVE

To assess the risk of aspiration associated with post-swallow residue subsites in Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) in bottle-fed infants <1 year of age.

METHODS

This is a retrospective matched-pairs cohort study at an academic tertiary children's hospital. FEES and Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study (VFSS) trials performed within the same infant <5 days apart were paired by matching bolus consistency and bottle flow rate. Positive aspiration was defined by the "or rule" in which aspiration is positive when either FEES or VFSS within a matched pair is positive.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven FEES-VFSS matched pairs from 29 patients (16 males; mean [SD] age, 2.9 [2.8] months) were included. The rate of positive aspiration, as defined by the "or rule", was 59% (51/87). In FEES, post-swallow pyriform sinus residue was present in 16% (14/87) and anterior commissure residue 27% (31/87). Risk of positive aspiration was increased by pyriform sinus residue (odds ratio [OR] 5.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.9-19.3, p < 0.01) and anterior commissure residue in FEES (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.1-6.1, p = 0.03). In the neonate subgroup, <1 month of age, multivariate-adjusted analysis showed that anterior commissure residue had better diagnostic accuracy for aspiration than in older infants (overall 70% vs. 42%, p < 0.01; sensitivity 60% vs. 10%, p < 0.01), whereas pyriform sinus residue had worse accuracy (overall 41% vs. 70%, p = 0.02; sensitivity 13% vs. 43%, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that pyriform sinus and anterior commissure residue during infant FEES were associated with fivefold and twofold increased risk of aspiration, respectively.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3

Using a retrospective matched-pairs cohort, this study assesses the diagnostic accuracy of post-swallow residue in FEES for predicting aspiration. Laryngoscope, 134:1431-1436, 2024.

Dysphagia in Neurological Disorders

Dysphagia is a common symptom in many neurologic disorders. Patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia present with difficulties when they start to swallow, often with coughing and choking; whereas patients with esophageal dysphagia describe the feeling that swallowed food stops in the chest. Chronic neurologic diseases such stroke, Parkinson's disease, or dementia often have dysphagia as a symptom, particularly oropharyngeal dysphagia, and the term "neurogenic dysphagia" is often used. A disruption of the sophisticated, integrated sensorimotor swallowing system is usually the main reason behind dysphagia. Dysphagia can be associated with aspiration leading to aspiration pneumonia, and chronic dysphagia can lead to weight loss and malnutrition. Patients with dysphagia, when accurately and promptly diagnosed through medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, often can be treated and experience improved quality of life. The pathophysiological mechanisms behind dysphagia, its diagnosis, and potential treatments are discussed in this manuscript.

Validity and reliability of the Italian translation of the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale

Objective

In the dysphagic patient, pharyngeal residues (PR) are associated with aspiration and poor quality of life. The assessment of PR using validated scales during flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) is crucial for rehabilitation. This study aims to validate and test the reliability of the Italian version of the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale (IT-YPRSRS). The effects of training and experience in FEES on the scale were also determined.

Methods

The original YPRSRS was translated into Italian according to standardised guidelines. Thirty FEES images were selected after consensus and proposed to 22 naive raters who were asked to assess the severity of PR in each image. Raters were divided into two subgroups by years of experience at FEES, and randomly by training. Construct validity, inter-rater, and intra-rater reliability were assessed by kappa statistics.

Results

IT-YPRSRS showed substantial to almost perfect agreement (kappa > 0.75) in validity and reliability for both the overall sample (660 ratings), and valleculae/pyriform sinus sites (330 ratings each). No significant differences emerged between groups considering years of experience, and variable differences were observed by training.

Conclusions

The IT-YPRSRS demonstrated excellent validity and reliability in identifying location and severity of PR.

[Holistic semi-presential evaluation of oropharygeal dysphagia with the framework of International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health: Optimizing evaluation to improve rehabilitation treatment]

INTRODUCTION

Oropharyngeal dysphagia can lead to medical complications and decreased quality of life. Although there is a wide diversity of instrumental and clinical procedures to assess it, consensus for its holistic evaluation is scarce and poorly defined. The objective of this article is to present the design of a model for the holistic examination of oropharyngeal dysphagia that takes into account the components of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) and that can be carried out both face to face and semi-presentially using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A non-systematic review of the literature is carried out in order to select validated oropharyngeal dysphagia assessment tools with the highest degree of recommendation. These tools are analyzed by a group of experts in oropharyngeal dysphagia from the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau in Barcelona to design a holistic exploration model.

RESULTS

This evaluation model includes an assessment at the beginning and at the end of the treatment, as well as continuous monitoring during the rehabilitation process. It is implemented in a semi-presential and multidisciplinary way, and its purpose is to understand oropharyngeal dysphagia holistically to design and monitor an individualized therapeutic plan.

CONCLUSIONS

The evaluation of oropharyngeal dysphagia should be within the biopsychosocial framework proposed by the ICF. The application of ICT in blended interventions facilitates this.

Pneumonia, Mortality, and Other Outcomes Associated with Unsafe Swallowing Detected via Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) in Patients with Functional Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

The association between impairments in swallowing safety detected via fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) and dysphagia complications has been evaluated in small studies that have not allowed obtaining precise estimates of the presence of such an association. The objective of this study was to evaluate the risk of dysphagia complications associated with the detection of premature spillage, residue, penetration, and aspiration via FEES. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature were carried out. A search strategy was established using terms of controlled and free vocabulary (free text) in the PubMed, Lilacs, Embase, Medline, and Cochrane databases. The initial search in the databases identified 3545 articles, of which 321 were excluded due to duplication, 3224 were selected for review of titles and abstracts, 45 were selected for full-text review, 37 were excluded for not meeting the selection criteria, and 8 were included for the final analysis, with a total population of 1168 patients. Aspiration increased the risk of pneumonia (OR 2.97, 95% CI 1.52-5.80, P = 0.001). The number of studies that have evaluated the relationship of other FEES findings with dysphagia complications was limited (≤ 3). One study found a higher risk of mortality in patients with aspiration (OR 4.08, 95% CI 1.60-10.27, P = 0.003). Another study that evaluated the risk of mortality in a combined group of penetration and aspiration found no higher risk of mortality. Penetration, residue, and premature spillage were not found to be associated with an increased risk of pneumonia, mortality, or other outcomes. Aspiration demonstrated via FEES was associated with an increased risk of pneumonia and mortality. There is insufficient evidence for the capacity of premature spillage, penetration, and residue to predict dysphagia complications.

A Comparative Assessment of the Diagnosis of Swallowing Impairment and Gastroesophageal Reflux in Canines and Humans

Swallowing impairment is a highly prevalent and clinically significant problem affecting people and dogs. There are myriad causes of swallowing impairment of which gastroesophageal reflux is the most common in both species. Similarities in anatomy and physiology between humans and canines results in analogous swallowing disorders including cricopharyngeus muscle achalasia, esophageal achalasia, hiatal herniation, and gastroesophageal reflux with secondary esophagitis and esophageal dysmotility. Accordingly, the diagnostic approach to human and canine patients with swallowing impairment is similar. Diagnostic procedures such as swallowing fluoroscopy, high-resolution manometry, pH/impedance monitoring, and endolumenal functional luminal imaging probe can be performed in both species; however, nasofacial conformation, increased esophageal length, and the difficulty of completing several of these procedures in awake dogs are inherent challenges that need to be considered. Human patients can convey their symptoms and respond to verbal cues, whereas veterinarians must rely on clinical histories narrated by pet owners followed by comprehensive physical examination and observation of the animal eating different food consistencies and drinking water. Dogs may also be unwilling to drink or eat in the hospital setting and may be resistant to physical restraint during diagnostic procedures. Despite the species differences and diagnostic challenges, dogs are a natural animal model for many oropharyngeal and esophageal disorders affecting people, which presents a tremendous opportunity for shared learnings. This manuscript reviews the comparative aspects of esophageal anatomy and physiology between humans and canines, summarizes the diagnostic assessment of swallowing impairment in both species, and discusses future considerations for collaborative medicine and translational research.

[Validation of the EDMUR scale, a tool to quantify the evolution of neurogenic dysphagia]

INTRODUCTION

dysphagia is a frequent and serious symptom in people with brain damage and a tool is needed to quantify and objectify its evolution.

OBJECTIVE

to develop and validate an instrument to measure the evolution of dysphagia in a patient with acquired brain damage in order to facilitate decision-making during multidisciplinary treatment.

METHODS

a longitudinal, retrospective cross-sectional study that consists of two phases with the aim of developing a new tool. In the first phase the instrument is developed and in the second psychometric properties, after application to 83 patients, is analyzed together with content validity, convergent validity, validity of known groups, reliability, and sensitivity to change.

RESULTS

an instrument, the EDMUR scale, composed of 5 domains and 46 items was obtained. After expert judgment, all the items proposed in the scale design phase reached the minimum values of Aiken's V and CRV'. Cronbach's alpha (α) showed a good internal consistency. The correlation between the FOIS scale and the EDMUR obtained through Spearman's coefficient (rho) was direct and significant. The Kruskal-Wallis H-test revealed statistically significant differences between all the groups established according to the levels of the FOIS. For internal sensitivity, the Wilcoxon signed rank sum test was used, obtaining a significant difference between the two assessments. The external sensitivity of the scale obtained a direct and significant correlation.

CONCLUSIONS

the EDMUR scale is a reliable, valid, and sensitive instrument for quantifying the evolution of dysphagia, thus improving the quality of treatments.

Evaluation of Objective and Subjective Swallowing Outcomes in Patients with Dysphagia Treated for Head and Neck Cancer

We evaluated objective and subjective swallowing function outcomes in patients with dysphagia treated for head and neck cancer (HNC) and identified risk factors for poor swallowing outcomes. Patients undergoing videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (VFSS) between January 2016 and March 2021 were divided into four groups according to primary tumor sites; post-treatment dysphagia was assessed. The penetration–aspiration scale (PAS) and bolus residue scale (BRS) were used to objectively assess swallowing function through VFSS. The Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) was used for subjective analyses of swallowing statuses. To account for potential confounding, important covariates were adjusted for in logistic regression models. Oropharyngeal tumors were significantly more likely to have poor PAS and BRS scores than oral cavity tumors, and the patients with nasopharyngeal tumors were significantly less likely to have poor FOIS scores. Old age, having multiple HNCs, and a history of radiotherapy were associated with an increased odds of poor PAS scores (for all types of swallows), poor BRS scores (for semiliquid and solid swallows), and poor FOIS scores, respectively. This indicates using only subjective assessments may not allow for accurate evaluations of swallowing function in patients treated for HNC. Using both objective and subjective assessments may allow for comprehensive evaluations.

A study of acoustic characteristics of voluntary expiratory sounds produced before and immediately after swallowing

To evaluate the expiratory sounds produced during swallowing recorded simultaneously with videofluorographic examination of swallowing (VF) using fast Fourier transform (FFT), and to examine the relationship between dysphagia and its acoustic characteristics. A total of 348 samples of expiratory sounds were collected from 61 patients with dysphagia whose expiratory sounds were recorded during VF. The VF results were evaluated by one dentist and categorized into three groups: safe group (SG), penetration group (PG), and aspiration group (AG). The duration and maximum amplitude of expiratory sounds produced were measured as the domain characteristics on the time waveform of these sounds and compared among the groups. Time window-length appropriate for FFT and acoustic discriminate values (AD values) of SG, PG, and AG were also investigated. The groups were analyzed using analysis of variance and Scheffé's multiple comparison method. The maximum amplitude of SG was significantly smaller than those of PG and AG. The mean duration in SG (2.05 s) was significantly longer than those in PG (0.84 s) and AG (0.96 s). The AD value in SG was significantly lower than those in PG and AG. AD value detects penetration or aspiration, and can be useful in screening for dysphagia.

Swallowing function in COVID-19 patients after invasive mechanical ventilation

Objective

To explore swallowing function and risk factors associated with delayed recovery of swallowing in COVID-19 patients post invasive mechanical ventilation using the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS).

Design

Longitudinal cohort study.

Setting

3 secondary-level hospitals.

Participants

Invasively ventilated patients (n=28), hospitalized with severe COVID-19 who were referred to the Speech and Language Pathology (SLP) departments post mechanical ventilation between March 5 and July 5 2020 for an evaluation of swallowing function before commencing oral diet.

Interventions

SLP assessment, advice and therapy for dysphagia.

Main outcome measures

Oral intake levels at baseline and hospital discharge according to the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS). Patients were stratified according to FOIS (1-5=dysphagia, 6-7= functional oral intake). Data regarding comorbidities, frailty, intubation and tracheostomy, proning and SLP evaluation were collected.

Results

Dysphagia was found in 71% of the patients at baseline (in total 79% male, age 61 ±12 years, BMI 30 ±8 kg/m²). Median FOIS score at baseline was 2 (IQR 1) vs 5 (IQR 2.5) at hospital discharge. Patients with dysphagia were older (64 ±8.5 vs 53 ±16 years; p= 0.019), had a higher incidence of hypertension (70% vs 12%; p=0.006) were ventilated invasively longer (16 ±7 vs 10 ±2 days; p=0.017) or with tracheostomy (9 ±9 vs 1 ±2 days; p=0.03) longer. A negative association was found between swallowing dysfunction at bedside and days hospitalized (r=-0.471, p=0.01), and number of days at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) (r=-0.48, p=0.01).

Conclusion

Dysphagia is prevalent in COVID-19 patients post invasive mechanical ventilation and is associated with number of days in hospital and number of days in the ICU. Swallowing function and tolerance of oral diet improved at discharge (p<0.001).

European Survey: Dysphagia Management in Patients with Neuromuscular Diseases

Dysphagia is common in patients with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). Its management differs by country and clinical setting. The purpose of this study was to describe current practices in the management of dysphagia in NMDs across Europe. An online survey of sixteen questions was developed, including basic information on facilities, existence of a management protocol, availability of dedicated therapists, tools used during screening, assessment, treatment stages, and treatment strategies. The survey was rolled out to European healthcare facilities providing care for NMDs. A total of 140 facilities across 25 European countries completed the survey. Substantial discrepancies in dysphagia management were identified among respondents. Seventy-two percent of the facilities reported having a protocol for at least one of the three management stages whereas only 39% had one for all. Speech and language therapists were reported as involved throughout the entire management stage while participation of other members from multidisciplinary teams varied depending on the stage. Clinical swallowing assessment was the most frequently reported tool in the assessment and treatment stages. For screening, questionnaires were the most frequently used while instrumental examinations were mainly reported in the assessment stage. For the treatment stage, adaptation strategies (diet, food, and posture) were the most reported approaches. In conclusion, the survey highlighted the absence of a defined protocol concerning the management of dysphagia in most of the surveyed healthcare facilities. Standardized training strategies and guidelines are necessary in the future to familiarize clinicians with each stage of the management of dysphagia.

Consensus Guidelines for the Assessments of Individuals Who Stutter Across the Lifespan

Purpose This project sought to develop consensus guidelines for clinically meaningful, comprehensive assessment procedures for people who stutter across the lifespan. Method Twelve expert clinicians and researchers who have written extensively about stuttering provided detailed descriptions of the type of data that they routinely collect during diagnostic evaluations of preschool children, school-age children, adolescents, and adults who stutter. Iterative content analysis, with repeated input from the respondents, was used to identify core areas that reflect common domains that these experts judge to be important for evaluating stuttering for varying age groups. Results Six core areas were identified as common components of a comprehensive evaluation of stuttering and people who stutter. These areas should be included to varying degrees depending upon the age and needs of the client or family. The core areas include the following: (a) stuttering-related background information; (b) speech, language, and temperament development (especially for younger clients); (c) speech fluency and stuttering behaviors; (d) reactions to stuttering by the speaker; (e) reactions to stuttering by people in the speaker's environment; and (f) adverse impact caused by stuttering. Discussion These consensus recommendations can help speech-language pathologists who are uncertain about appropriate stuttering assessment procedures to design and conduct more thorough evaluations, so that they will be better prepared to provide individualized and comprehensive treatment for people who stutter across the lifespan.

Diagnosis and management of aspiration using fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing in a Pediatric Pulmonology Unit

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Swallowing disorders lead to chronic lung aspiration. Early detection and treatment of aspiration in children with dysphagia are important to prevent lung damage. Diagnosis of aspiration, which may be silent, requires an instrumental study such as fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). Despite its usefulness, it is rarely practiced by pediatric pulmonologists. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and utility of FEES performed in the pediatric respiratory unit of a tertiary hospital, analyze the clinical characteristics, endoscopic findings and proposed treatments, and identify the factors associated with penetration or aspiration.

METHODS

Medical records of 373 children with suspected aspiration who were referred to the pediatric respiratory unit for FEES were reviewed retrospectively. Clinical characteristics, FEES findings, and the proposed treatments were analyzed.

RESULTS

Laryngeal penetration/aspiration was seen in 47.9% of the patients. The most common associated conditions were neurological disease and prematurity. The most frequently observed endoscopic finding was altered laryngeal sensitivity (36.5%). Intervention was recommended in 54.2% of the patients. Complications were not seen during any of the procedures. The multivariate logistic regression model revealed an independent association between aspiration and alterations in laryngeal sensitivity (odds ratio [OR], 5.68), pharyngeal pooling (OR, 11.47), and post-swallowing food residues (OR, 8.08).

CONCLUSIONS

The FEES procedure performed by pediatric pulmonologists is a reliable method for diagnosing aspiration in children. It can be safely executed by trained pulmonologists, and significant endoscopic signs other than aspiration can guide in the diagnosis and management recommendations.

Screening for oropharyngeal dysphagia in adult patients with neuromuscular diseases using the Sydney Swallow Questionnaire

INTRODUCTION/AIMS

Oropharyngeal dysphagia is common in patients with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). Its early recognition is vital for proper management. We tested a large cohort of adult NMD patients for oropharyngeal dysphagia using the Sydney Swallow Questionnaire (SSQ). We also looked for possible differences in characteristics of oropharyngeal dysphagia in various NMD groups and diseases. Finally, we compared results of this screening with those from their corresponding medical records for eventual "clinical history" of dysphagia.

METHODS

We asked patients to fill in the SSQ during follow-up outpatient visits at our neuromuscular reference center. A total score above the cutoff score of 118.5 out of 1700 was indicative of oropharyngeal dysphagia.

RESULTS

Of the 304 adult patients assessed for eligibility, 201 NMD patients (96 women and 105 men, aged 49.0 ± 16.2 years) were included and tested in this study. Oropharyngeal dysphagia was detected in 45% of all the NMD patients when using the SSQ, whereas only 12% had a positive medical record for dysphagia. The median SSQ scores for patients with myotonic syndromes (including myotonic dystrophy type 1), with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and with facioscapulohumeral dystrophy were above the cutoff score. The SSQ scores obtained revealed distinct oropharyngeal dysphagia characteristics in the different NMD groups and diseases.

DISCUSSION

The SSQ tests positively for oropharyngeal dysphagia in a higher proportion of NMD patients compared with their medical records. The distinct oropharyngeal dysphagia characteristics we revealed in different NMD groups and diseases may help to elaborate adapted clinical approaches in the management of oropharyngeal dysphagia.

European white paper: oropharyngeal dysphagia in head and neck cancer

PURPOSE

To develop a European White Paper document on oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) in head and neck cancer (HNC). There are wide variations in the management of OD associated with HNC across Europe.

METHODS

Experts in the management of specific aspects of OD in HNC across Europe were delegated by their professional medical and multidisciplinary societies to contribute to this document. Evidence is based on systematic reviews, consensus-based position statements, and expert opinion.

RESULTS

Twenty-four sections on HNC-specific OD topics.

CONCLUSION

This European White Paper summarizes current best practice on management of OD in HNC, providing recommendations to support patients and health professionals. The body of literature and its level of evidence on diagnostics and treatment for OD in HNC remain poor. This is in the context of an expected increase in the prevalence of OD due to HNC in the near future. Contributing factors to increased prevalence include aging of our European population (including HNC patients) and an increase in human papillomavirus (HPV) related cancer, despite the introduction of HPV vaccination in various countries. We recommend timely implementation of OD screening in HNC patients while emphasizing the need for robust scientific research on the treatment of OD in HNC. Meanwhile, its management remains a challenge for European professional associations and policymakers.

High-Volume Billing and Reimbursement Trends for Endoscopic Swallowing Studies in the Medicare Population

The aim of this study is to delineate the reimbursement trends in fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing with sensory testing (FEESST) and without sensory testing (FEES) in relation to that of speech-language pathology's (SLP) portion of modified barium swallow studies (MBS), as well as to document the types of providers billing for these procedures. We performed descriptive analyses of the volume of FEES/FEESST and MBS, and total reimbursements data obtained from 2013-2018 Medicare Part B National Summary files. We also utilized the 2017 Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment Data to analyze the higher volume providers (> 10 procedures annually) of either FEES and/or FEESST. From 2003 to 2018, there has been an average, annual increase of approximately 318 FEES/FEESST performed within the Medicare fee-for-service population (R = 0.9505 [95% CI 0.860-0.983]; p < 0.001) covered under Part B (which is largely outpatient coverage). Similarly, there was an increase in Medicare-specific FEES/FEESST reimbursement from $302,840 in 2003 to $1.2 million in 2018 (R = 0.9721 [95% CI 0.920-0.990; p < 0.001]). Prior to 2010, FEESST was performed more frequently than FEES (maximum annual difference of 1174), though from 2010 onward, relatively more annual FEES was performed. From 2003-2018, the reimbursement per procedure increased by $16.79 and $35.36 for FEESST and FEES, respectively, and by $32.84 for the SLP portion of the MBS. Among high-volume FEES/FEESST billers, 65.4% were otolaryngologists and 32.3% were independently billing SLPs. From 2003 to 2018, there has been a significant rise in the number of performed and reimbursed FEES/FEESST. From 2014 onward, compared to SLP-involved MBS, there has been a relative increase in performance of FEES/FEESST.

Oropharyngeal dysphagia in early stages of myotonic dystrophy type 1

INTRODUCTION

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a multisystemic disorder characterized mainly by skeletal muscle alterations. Although oropharyngeal dysphagia is a prominent clinical feature of DM1, it remains poorly studied in its early disease stages.

METHODS

Dysphagia was investigated in 11 presymptomatic DM1 carriers, 14 patients with DM1 and 12 age-matched healthy controls, by using fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) and clinical scores.

RESULTS

Scores for the FEES variables, delayed pharyngeal reflex, posterior pooling, and postswallow residue were significantly greater in patients with DM1 and in presymptomatic DM1 carriers than in healthy controls (P < 0.05); oropharyngeal dysfunction was more severe in patients than in presymptomatic carriers. Penetration/aspiration was found altered exclusively in patients with DM1 (P < 0.05).

DISCUSSION

Swallowing dysfunction occurs in presymptomatic DM1 carriers. Timely diagnosis of dysphagia in preclinical stages of the disease will aid in the timely management of presymptomatic carriers, potentially preventing medical complications. Muscle Nerve, 2019.

Screening and evaluation tools of dysphagia in adults with neuromuscular diseases: a systematic review

Background:

The purpose of this systematic review was to summarize the different dysphagia screening and evaluation tools, and to identify their measurement properties in adults with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs).

Methods:

A systematic review was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The search strategy was conducted across three databases (PubMed, CINAHL and ScienceDirect). Measurement properties of each tools and the Quality Index, developed by Downs and Black, were considered for the different investigated studies.

Results:

The search strategy produced 2221 articles. After removal of duplicates and full-text analysis, 19 studies were included. Most of the publications focused on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS; n = 10) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD; n = 4). A total of 12 tools, listed as instrumental and noninstrumental examinations, were retrieved. A total of five of them used videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS). Measurement properties of the tools are not completely described in detail in many studies. The neuromuscular disease swallowing status scale, a noninstrumental tool, is the only one that assessed all measurement properties in ALS patients. The median score reported for the Quality Index was 16.

Conclusions:

This systematic review identified 12 different tools for the screening and evaluation of dysphagia in adults with NMD. Majority of the studies presented VFSS as a valid and reliable examination to assess dysphagia in ALS and DMD. Other tools were mainly evaluated in ALS patients, but further studies are needed to complete their measurement properties. In other NMDs, no firm conclusion can be made because of insufficient data and heterogeneity of NMDs.