DYSPHAGIA-ASPIRATION

SUMMARY

1. Aspiration is the entry of a substance through the vocal folds (true vocal cords) into the trachea.

2. Missed on bedside swallowing evaluations in 40%-60% of patients (silent aspiration).

3. It can be reliably diagnosed on a VFSS, will show penetration of contrast material below the true vocal cords.

4. Aspiration has been found to occur in 40%-70% of stroke patients on VFSS.

5. Predictors of aspiration on VFSS include: delayed initiation of the swallow reflex, decreased pharyngeal peristalsis.

6. Predictors of aspiration on bedside swallowing exam: abnormal cough, cough after swallowing, dysarthria, dysphonia, voice change after swallow (wet voice), abnormal gag reflex.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.