Pharyngeal dysfunctions and their interrelationship in patients with dysphagia

Abstract

Cineradiographic examination of the pharynx is a valuable tool for evaluation of patients with swallowing complaints. The direct functional imaging is the essence of cineradiography of the pharynx during swallowing. In this way the motor function of the pharynx can be monitored. The kind and number of specific dysfunction can give a valuable information about the severity of pharyngeal impairment. Using a scoring system compensation and decompensation of pharyngeal function can be assessed, thereby offering an understanding of the patients' swallowing ability.