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Case Reports
. 2021 May;131(5):E1567-E1569.
doi: 10.1002/lary.29226. Epub 2020 Oct 30.

Biofeedback Training Improves Swallowing in a Unique Case of Upper Esophageal Sphincter Hypotonicity

Dustin Romain  1 , Lauran K Evans  2 , Yvette Diaz  1 , Kathryn Allen  1 , Kristine Galek  1
Affiliations
Case Reports

Biofeedback Training Improves Swallowing in a Unique Case of Upper Esophageal Sphincter Hypotonicity

Dustin Romain et al. Laryngoscope. 2021 May.

Abstract

Hypotonicity of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) has been reported only two times previously in the literature, with no reports of treatment options for this rarity. We present a third case of hypotonic UES found during high-resolution pharyngeal manometry. Although the patient had nearly absent resting pressures of the UES, pressures during and post-swallow were normal. It was hypothesized that the patient might be able to increase pre-swallow UES pressure using biofeedback. Using a chin up/out maneuver during manometry, the patient was able to achieve a more normal swallow pressure pattern. This case also highlights the need to complete manometry alongside other swallow imaging techniques for effective treatment planning and patient outcomes. Laryngoscope, 131:E1567-E1569, 2021.

Keywords: Biofeedback; dysphagia; high-resolution manometry; hypotonic upper esophageal sphincter.

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References

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