Dysphagia Testing with VF and VE : Understanding the Clinical Condition / The Japanese Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine

ABSTRACT

It is difficult to make dysphagia assessments in actual meal settings. Therefore, instrument-based evaluations are necessary, and videofluoroscopic examinations (VF) and video-endoscopic examinations (VE) of swallowing are typically performed for this purpose. Much information can be obtained by understanding the respective advantages and disadvantages of VF and VE and combining them for evaluations, making them useful for both assessment and treatment. Essentially, VF is contrast radiography using a fluoroscope. It uses test food containing a contrast agent that allows the flow of the food from the mouth to the pharynx and esophagus accompanying swallowing movements to be observed in real time to determine whether there is aspiration or food remaining in the pharynx. The images are taken mainly from the frontal and lateral views under fluoroscopy. VE is a test that involves direct fiberscopic observation of things such as glottal closure, saliva and secretions, and food boluses or other substances remaining in the pharynx. Assessment includes evaluation of vocal cord paralysis, redness and swelling of the arytenoid region, and whether there is saliva aspiration into the larynx. Next, the swallowing function is assessed using actual food. The body posture used in the test is the individual's regular posture when eating and a safe, proper posture with a low risk of aspiration. Today, VF and VE are essential tools for assessing and treating dysphagia. It is hoped that many practitioners will acquire the skills to administer and make use of these tests in the rehabilitation of patients with eating and swallowing disorders.