An integrated team approach to the management of patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia

Abstract

This paper describes a team approach to the assessment and management of patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia of neurologic origin. The team's major focus was to determine the need for adjustments to the patient's diet to maintain or restore the safety of oral feeding. This involved the development of a detailed radiographic examination and a series of dysphagia diets, in addition to comprehensive evaluations by an occupational therapist, physiotherapist, and speech pathologist. The effects of deteriorating swallowing ability on the physical, cognitive, and emotional status of the patient are discussed in the context of a multidisciplinary approach.