Archives

Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS) Presentation Checklist and Notes

July 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.
This resource provides an SLP with a checklist of areas to consider and make a note of before and during a videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS). Video on how to use this resource: Palmer, J. B., Kuhlemeier, K. V., Tippett, D. C., & Lynch, C. (1993). A protocol for the videofluorographic swallowing study. Dysphagia, 8(3), 209–214.
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The Effect of Obstructive Sleep Apnea on Swallowing Function

June 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.
This resource explains how repeated episodes of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can affect a person’s swallow function. Video on how to use this resource: de Luccas, G. R., & Berretin-Felix, G. (2021). Swallowing disorders in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: a critical literature review. Sleep science (Sao Paulo, Brazil), 14(Spec 1), 79–85. Peppard, P. E., […]
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Comparing a Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study and Esophagram

April 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.
A Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS) and esophagram are helpful tools for evaluating a person’s swallowing function. This handout explains the similarities and differences to help determine which one may be more appropriate. Video on how to use this resource:
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Saliva Anatomy and Function

March 1, 2023 by Ashley Zhinin.
Saliva is necessary for supporting swallowing, digestion, and teeth protection. Three salivary glands produce one to two liters of the body’s daily saliva. Video on how to use this resource: Nascimento, D., Carmona, J., Mestre, T., Ferreira, J. J., & Guimarães, I. (2021). Drooling rating scales in Parkinson’s disease: A systematic review. Parkinsonism & Related […]
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The Cranial Nerves and the Swallow

January 9, 2022 by txinsights.
This handout defines the 5 most important cranial nerves as related to swallowing and outlines specific problems that may occur due to damage along the pathway of these nerves.
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The Brain and Swallowing

January 9, 2022 by txinsights.
Swallowing is a complex automatic process we often take for granted until this daily activity becomes difficult. This material provides some insight into how the brain stem and brain work simultaneously to make swallowing happen safely.
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Swallow Initiation

January 9, 2022 by txinsights.
Just how exactly is the swallow triggered? This handout describes the oral and pharyngeal sequences involved in a successful swallow. Also discusses swallow delay as well as how speech therapy can improve swallow initiation and reduce the risk of dysphagia and associated aspiration.
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SLP Role in the Esophageal Stage of Swallowing

January 6, 2022 by txinsights.
What exactly is our role when it comes to esophageal dysfunction? This material describes the SLP’s role in screening for/being a part of a multidisciplinary team to treat esophageal dysphagia. Includes a handy reference chart for comparing and contrasting the symptoms of each etiology of dysphagia.
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Pharyngeal Stage of Swallowing in Adults

January 3, 2022 by txinsights.
This material describes the pharyngeal components of normal swallowing in adults. Broken down piece by piece and taking up 2 pages, every detail of the anatomy and physiology of this enormously important and very fast phase of the swallow is explained.
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