Role of fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) in children with suspected dysphagia

Abstract Objective To assess FEES findings in defining oral feeding safety in children with suspected dysphagia, comparing them with clinical feeding evaluation results. Methods This study comprised a case series involving children with suspected dysphagia, referred for evaluation by otolaryngologists and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) at a Brazilian quaternary public university hospital. These children underwent both clinical evaluations and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), with a comprehensive collection of demographic and clinical data. Subsequently, the authors performed a comparative analysis of findings from both assessments. Results Most patients successfully completed the FEES procedure (93.7%), resulting in a final number of 60 cases included in the study. The prevalence of dysphagia was confirmed in a significant 88% of these cases. Suspected aspiration on clinical SLP evaluation was present in 34 patients. Of these, FEES confirmed aspiration or penetration in 28 patients. Among the 35 patients with aspiration or penetration on FEES, 7 (20%) had no suspicion on SLP clinical assessment. All seven patients in whom clinical SLP evaluation failed to predict penetration/aspiration had neurological disorders. The median age of the children was 2.8 years, and 49 (81.6%) had neurological disorders, while 35 (58.3%) had chronic pulmonary disease. The most prevalent complaints were choking (41.6%) and sialorrhea (23.3%). Conclusion FEES can diagnose structural anomalies of the upper aerodigestive tract and significantly contribute to the detection of aspiration and penetration in this group of patients with suspected dysphagia, identifying moderate and severe dysphagia even in cases where clinical assessment had no suspicion.

Profile of oropharyngeal swallowing in healthy Brazilian adults and older adults.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the findings of Fiberoptic Endoscopic Examination of Swallowing (FEES) in asymptomatic young and older adults, comparing results across different age groups. Additionally, this study aims to test the Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) as an instrument to identify dysphagia risk. METHODS: A prospective cross-sectional observational analysis was conducted on a sample of individuals aged 20 and above, asymptomatic for dysphagia, stratified by age groups. The EAT-10 questionnaire was completed, and the FEES was employed to assess oropharyngeal swallowing function. Various parameters, including salivary stasis, swallowing reflex trigger, swallowing sequence, residue, penetration, and aspiration were blindly analyzed by two otolaryngologists. RESULTS: A total of 184 participants were included, with a mean age of 44.7 ±â€¯18.5 years. There was good to excellent agreement between examiners for FEES parameters. The EAT-10 score ≥3 suggested dysphagia risk in 7.6% (n = 14) of the sample, with no association with age or any FEES parameter. Individuals aged ≥80 years presented more residue (50%; n = 5/10) compared to younger individuals (11.5%; n = 20/174; p =  0.039). Salivary stasis was found exclusively in individuals aged ≥60 years (n = 5/39; 12.8%; p = 0.027). Age did not influence on the swallowing reflex trigger, swallowing sequence, penetration, and aspiration. Penetration was observed in 4.9% (n = 9) of subjects and aspiration occurred in 0.5% (n = 1) of subjects, with no statistical significance in age groups. CONCLUSION: Age does not have a linear influence on swallowing in healthy adults and elderly people. However, individuals aged ≥80 years showed a higher prevalence of residue, and individuals aged ≥60 years showed a higher prevalence of salivary stasis, suggesting an increased risk or presence of dysphagia. Other FEES parameters were not influenced by age. These findings provide valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of swallowing across different age groups, emphasizing the importance of age-specific considerations in dysphagia assessment.

Risk Model for Laryngeal Complications Prediction in Chinese PatientGBVs After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to identify perioperative risk factors of laryngeal symptoms and to develop an implementable risk prediction model for Chinese hospitalized patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). METHODS: A total of 1476 Chinese CABG patients admitted to Wuhan Asian Heart Hospital from January 2020 to June 2022 were included and then divided into a modeling cohort and a verification cohort. Univariate analysis was used to identify laryngeal symptoms risk factors, and multivariate logistic regression was applied to construct a prediction model for laryngeal symptoms after CABG. Discrimination and calibration of this model were validated based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the Hosmer-Lemeshow (H-L) test, respectively. RESULTS: The incidence of laryngeal symptoms in patients who underwent CABG was 6.48%. Four independent risk factors were included in the model, and the established aryngeal complications risk calculation formula was Logit (P) = -4.525 + 0.824 × female + 2.09 × body mass index < 18.5 Kg/m2 + 0.793 × transesophageal echocardiogram + 1.218 × intensive care unit intubation time. For laryngeal symptoms, the area under the ROC curve was 0.769 in the derivation cohort (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.698-0.840) and 0.811 in the validation cohort (95% CI: 0.742-0.879). According to the H-L test, the P-values in the modeling group and the verification group were 0.659 and 0.838, respectively. CONCLUSION: The prediction model developed in this study can be used to identify high-risk patients for laryngealsymptoms undergoing CABG, and help clinicians implement the follow-up treatment.

Apraisal of the diagnostic value of the gag reflex in patients with neurogenic oropharyngeal dysphagia / Evaluación del valor clínico del reflejo nauseoso en la disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica.

Introduction: The gag reflex is a protection mechanism that prevents food and unwanted agents from entering the lower airways. It is usually part of the physical examination of swallowing to detect oropharyngeal dysphagia, but it is a potentially ambiguous sign. Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic value of the gag reflex in patients with neurogenic oropharyngeal dysphagia and adults without it. Materials and methods: We conducted an analytical observational study in patients with neurogenic oropharyngeal dysphagia (cases) and patients without dysphagia (controls). We evaluated the absence or presence of the reflex bilaterally, by direct visualization, and adjusted it according to sex, age, and other interaction variables. Results: We included 86 patients with neurogenic oropharyngeal dysphagia and 80 control subjects. The gag reflex on swallowing physical examination showed a positive relationship with the patients (right side: OR = 3.97; 95 % CI: 2.01-7.84; left side: OR = 4.84; 95 % CI: 2.41-9.72), but a negative association with the control group. In both groups, neither sex, nor age, nor other interaction variables modified the gag reflex. Conclusions: The gag reflex absence or presence does not confirm or exclude the existence of oropharyngeal dysphagia due to neurological and neuromuscular causes. Therefore, health professionals must not rely on this reflex. Clinicians must go beyond a simple reflex revision, even in neurological patients where it is supposed to be absent.

Introducción. El reflejo nauseoso es un mecanismo de protección que impide que alimentos y agentes no deseados penetren en la vía aérea inferior. Usualmente, hace parte del examen físico de la deglución para detectar la disfagia orofaríngea, pero es un signo potencialmente ambiguo. Objetivo. Evaluar el valor diagnóstico del reflejo nauseoso en pacientes con disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica y en pacientes sin ella. Materiales y métodos. Se trata de un estudio observacional, analítico, en pacientes con disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica (casos) y en personas sin disfagia (controles), en el cual se evaluó por visualización directa la ausencia o la presencia del reflejo nauseoso de forma bilateral. Este resultado se ajustó por sexo, edad y otras variables de interacción. Resultados. Se evaluaron 86 pacientes con disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica y 80 personas sin ella. En el examen físico de la deglución, la presencia del reflejo mostró una relación positiva con los pacientes (lado derecho: OR = 3,97; IC95%: 2,01-7,84; lado izquierdo: OR = 4,84; IC95%: 2,41-9,72), pero una asociación negativa con los controles. En ambos grupos, ni el sexo ni la edad, ni otras variables de interacción modificaron el reflejo nauseoso. Conclusiones. La ausencia o la presencia del reflejo nauseoso no confirma ni excluye la existencia de una disfagia orofaríngea por causas neurológicas o neuromusculares; por lo tanto, no es recomendable que los profesionales de la salud se fíen del resultado de este reflejo. Los médicos tratantes deben ir más allá de una simple revisión del reflejo nauseoso, incluso en pacientes neurológicos en quienes se supone que debería estar ausente.

Swallowing Safety after Remote sub-total Esophagectomy: How Important is Tongue Pressure?

The factors related to oropharyngeal dysphagia after remote esophagectomy (greater than five months) remain unclear. This study aimed to assess patient perception of dysphagia, maximum anterior isometric pressure (MAIP), maximum posterior isometric pressure (MPIP), lingual swallowing pressure (LSP) and radiographic physiological components of the oral and pharyngeal phases of swallowing in patients who are post remote sub-total esophagectomy (SE). Patient perception of dysphagia was assessed using the Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10). MAIP, MPIP, and LSP were measured using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument. Videofluoroscopy was used to assess the physiologic components of swallowing with the Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP) and the Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS). Ten patients were included in the study (53.2% male; mean age 54.5 ± 18.0). The mean postoperative time was 30 months (range, 5.0-72 months). Seven patients had elevated EAT-10 scores (> 3). All patients demonstrated impaired oropharyngeal swallowing on at least three MBSImP components (range 3-12) and two patients aspirated (PAS 8). There was a significant difference in MAIP values when comparing patients with normal versus impaired laryngeal elevation and epiglottic movement (p < 0.001). MPIP values were significantly different in patients with normal versus impaired epiglottic movement as well as normal versus elevated PAS scores (p < 0.001). Decreased lingual pressure and physiological changes in swallowing coexist after SE. Our results indicate that the decrease in tongue strength may be one of the factors related to unsafe swallow. The assessment of lingual pressure provides diagnostic value and should be incorporated as part of a comprehensive assessment in this population.

Fiberoptic Endoscopy Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) Findings Associated with High Pneumonia Risk in a Cohort of Patients at Risk of Dysphagia.

Aspiration detected in the fiberoptic endoscopy evaluation of swallowing (FEES) has been inconsistently associated with pneumonia, with no evidence of the risk of pneumonia from other alterations in swallowing safety detected in FEES. We conducted a dynamic, ambidirectional cohort study involving 148 subjects at risk of dysphagia in a tertiary university hospital. Our aim was to determine the risk of pneumonia attributed to alterations in swallowing safety detected during FEES. We used multivariate negative binomial regression models to adjust for potential confounders. The incidence density rate (IR) of pneumonia in patients with tracheal aspiration of any consistency was 26.6/100 people-years (RR 7.25; 95% CI: 3.50-14.98; P < 0.001). The IR was 19.7/100 people-years (RR 7.85; 95% CI: 3.34-18.47; P < 0.001) in those with laryngeal penetration of any consistency and 18.1/100 people-years (RR 6.24; 95% CI: 2.58-15.09; P < 0.001) in those with pharyngeal residue of any consistency. When adjusted for aspiration, the association of residue and penetration with pneumonia disappeared, suggesting that their risk of pneumonia is dependent on the presence of aspiration and that only aspiration is independently associated with pneumonia. This increased risk of pneumonia was significant in uni- and multivariate negative binomial regression models. We found an independently increased risk of pneumonia among patients with dysphagia and aspiration detected during FEES. Alterations in the oral and pharyngeal phases of swallowing, without aspiration, did not increase the risk of pneumonia.

Evaluación del valor clínico del reflejo nauseoso en la disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica / Apraisal of the diagnostic value of the gag reflex in patients with neurogenic oropharyngeal dysphagia

RESUMEN Introducción. El reflejo nauseoso es un mecanismo de protección que impide que alimentos y agentes no deseados penetren en la vía aérea inferior. Usualmente, hace parte del examen físico de la deglución para detectar la disfagia orofaríngea, pero es un signo potencialmente ambiguo. Objetivo. Evaluar el valor diagnóstico del reflejo nauseoso en pacientes con disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica y en pacientes sin ella. Materiales y métodos. Se trata de un estudio observacional, analítico, en pacientes con disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica (casos) y en personas sin disfagia (controles), en el cual se evaluó por visualización directa la ausencia o la presencia del reflejo nauseoso de forma bilateral. Este resultado se ajustó por sexo, edad y otras variables de interacción. Resultados. Se evaluaron 86 pacientes con disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica y 80 personas sin ella. En el examen físico de la deglución, la presencia del reflejo mostró una relación positiva con los pacientes (lado derecho: OR = 3,97; IC95%: 2,01-7,84; lado izquierdo: OR = 4,84; IC95%: 2,41-9,72), pero una asociación negativa con los controles. En ambos grupos, ni el sexo ni la edad, ni otras variables de interacción modificaron el reflejo nauseoso. Conclusiones. La ausencia o la presencia del reflejo nauseoso no confirma ni excluye la existencia de una disfagia orofaríngea por causas neurológicas o neuromusculares; por lo tanto, no es recomendable que los profesionales de la salud se fíen del resultado de este reflejo. Los médicos tratantes deben ir más allá de una simple revisión del reflejo nauseoso, incluso en pacientes neurológicos en quienes se supone que debería estar ausente.

ABSTRACT Introduction. The gag reflex is a protection mechanism that prevents food and unwanted agents from entering the lower airways. It is usually part of the physical examination of swallowing to detect oropharyngeal dysphagia, but it is a potentially ambiguous sign. Objective. To evaluate the diagnostic value of the gag reflex in patients with neurogenic oropharyngeal dysphagia and adults without it. Materials and methods. We conducted an analytical observational study in patients with neurogenic oropharyngeal dysphagia (cases) and patients without dysphagia (controls). We evaluated the absence or presence of the reflex bilaterally, by direct visualization, and adjusted it according to sex, age, and other interaction variables. Results. We included 86 patients with neurogenic oropharyngeal dysphagia and 80 control subjects. The gag reflex on swallowing physical examination showed a positive relationship with the patients (right side: OR = 3.97; 95 % CI: 2.01-7.84; left side: OR = 4.84; 95 % CI: 2.41-9.72), but a negative association with the control group. In both groups, neither sex, nor age, nor other interaction variables modified the gag reflex. Conclusions. The gag reflex absence or presence does not confirm or exclude the existence of oropharyngeal dysphagia due to neurological and neuromuscular causes. Therefore, health professionals must not rely on this reflex. Clinicians must go beyond a simple reflex revision, even in neurological patients where it is supposed to be absent.

Methodological Procedures to Acquire and Analyze Ultrasound Images of Swallowing: A Scoping Review.

This scoping review aimed to identify methodological procedures for acquiring and analyzing ultrasound images related to swallowing in adults and older adults. The inclusion criteria were based on the PCC strategy (participants, concept, and context), as follows: population (adults and older adults), concept (ultrasound assessment), and context (swallowing assessment). The review included observational, experimental, descriptive, and analytical studies and excluded those that were not available in full, animal studies, in vitro studies, letters to the editor, errata, study protocols, and those that used ultrasound for purposes other than swallowing. There were no language and time restrictions. Two independent blinded professionals selected 81 articles that met the inclusion criteria from different databases. The most evaluated parameters included tongue morphology and movements, hyoid bone displacement, swallowing muscle area, and pharyngeal residue detection, such as pharyngeal wall mobility. They used convex and linear transducers (3 MHz to 8 MHz) positioned in the submental, laryngeal, and lateral regions of the neck. The subjects were seated and instructed to eat different food volumes and consistencies. The literature mapping showed that ultrasound is a promising diagnostic tool, helping clinicians understand swallowing disorders, as it provides static and dynamic images in different modes and positions. Also, patients receive real-time biofeedback of changes related to dysphagia.

Role of fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) in children with suspected dysphagia.

OBJECTIVE: To assess FEES findings in defining oral feeding safety in children with suspected dysphagia, comparing them with clinical feeding evaluation results. METHODS: This study comprised a case series involving children with suspected dysphagia, referred for evaluation by otolaryngologists and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) at a Brazilian quaternary public university hospital. These children underwent both clinical evaluations and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), with a comprehensive collection of demographic and clinical data. Subsequently, the authors performed a comparative analysis of findings from both assessments. RESULTS: Most patients successfully completed the FEES procedure (93.7%), resulting in a final number of 60 cases included in the study. The prevalence of dysphagia was confirmed in a significant 88% of these cases. Suspected aspiration on clinical SLP evaluation was present in 34 patients. Of these, FEES confirmed aspiration or penetration in 28 patients. Among the 35 patients with aspiration or penetration on FEES, 7 (20%) had no suspicion on SLP clinical assessment. All seven patients in whom clinical SLP evaluation failed to predict penetration/aspiration had neurological disorders. The median age of the children was 2.8 years, and 49 (81.6%) had neurological disorders, while 35 (58.3%) had chronic pulmonary disease. The most prevalent complaints were choking (41.6%) and sialorrhea (23.3%). CONCLUSION: FEES can diagnose structural anomalies of the upper aerodigestive tract and significantly contribute to the detection of aspiration and penetration in this group of patients with suspected dysphagia, identifying moderate and severe dysphagia even in cases where clinical assessment had no suspicion.

Prevalence of self-reported swallowing difficulties and associated factors among older Colombians / Prevalência de dificuldades de deglutição autorreferidas e fatores associados entre idosos colombianos

Objective: We aimed to determine the prevalence of self-reported swallowing difficulty (dysphagia) among older Colombians and to explore the factors associated with this condition. Methods: This study presents a secondary analysis of the SABE-Colombia survey, a crosssectional study of community-dwelling older adults. The dependent variable was self reported swallowing difficulty, assessed through the question: "How often do you have difficulty or discomfort swallowing?" Descriptive and bivariate analyses of the sample were performed, followed by multivariate analysis, adjusting for confounding variables. Results: The final sample included 19 004 older Colombians, whose mean age was 69 years (56% women). The overall prevalence of swallowing difficulty was 12.2%. In the multivariate analysis, significant associations were observed between swallowing difficulty and several factors, including male sex (OR 1.14, 95%CI 1.03 ­ 1.26), age > 80 years (OR 1.26, 95%CI 1.08 ­ 1.47), dependence in activities of daily living (OR 1.62, 95%CI 1.23 ­ 2.13), cognitive impairment (OR 1.49, 95%CI 1.30 ­ 1.70), depressive symptoms (OR 1.38, 95%CI 1.15 ­ 1.65), sarcopenia (OR 1.32, 95%CI 1.02 ­ 1.69), malnutrition (OR 1.35, 95%CI 1.23 ­ 1.49), and osteoarticular disease (OR 1.18, 95%CI 1.07 ­ 1.38). Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of swallowing difficulty among older community-dwelling Colombians. Our results showed a strong correlation between swallowing difficulty and risk factors such as cognitive impairment, depressive symptoms, osteoarticular disease, and dependence in activities of daily living, but not with malnutrition or sarcopenia. (AU)

Revisional surgery for persistent dysphagia plus Roux Y gastric bypass robot-assisted in a patient with obesity. About a case.

This case study presents a female patient with progressive dysphagia for solids, heartburn, and obesity that proved refractory to clinical management. Imagenological diagnosis revealed esophageal stenosis and achalasia. Furthermore, metabolic syndrome was established. We proposed intervention through esophagogastric reconstruction due to stenosis, revision of cardiomyotomy and robotic gastric bypass revealing scar tissue and fibrosis on the anterior aspect of the stomach resulting from prior fundoplication surgery. The patient underwent esophagogastric reconstruction due to adhesion bands which conditioned partial angulation of the gastroesophageal junction, cardiomyotomy revision, anterior and posterior hiatal plasty, and Roux Y Gastric Bypass assisted by a robot without complications. The intervention resulted in significant improvement in postoperative symptoms. This case highlights the importance of considering the probability of mechanical obstruction due to postsurgical adhesions in the initial evaluation of recurrent and persistent dysphagia, with surgical reintervention being the ideal option for resolution.

Dysphagia in Open Partial Horizontal Laryngectomy Type IIa: Quantitative Analysis of Videofluoroscopy using the ASPEKT Method.

Open Partial Horizontal Laryngectomy (OPHL) Type IIa surgery is a conservative surgical technique used in the treatment of laryngeal carcinomas. In this pilot study, we aimed to characterize swallowing function and physiology in a series of patients after OPHL Type IIa surgery through comparison to healthy reference values for quantitative measures for videofluoroscopy. We performed retrospective quantitative analysis of videofluoroscopy recordings of thin liquid swallows for a preliminary sample of 10 male patients. Each videofluoroscopy clip was rated in triplicate by trained blinded raters according to the ASPEKT Method (Analysis of Swallowing Physiology: Events, Kinematics and Timing). This preliminary sample of patients with previous OPHL surgery showed functional airway protection, with only 2 patients showing incomplete laryngeal vestibule closure (LVC) and associated airway invasion. However, the majority of patients (90%) showed prolonged latencies to LVC and upper esophageal sphincter (UES) opening. Prolonged durations of LVC and UES opening were also noted, but these were in the direction of compensation rather than impairment. Reduced pharyngeal area at rest was seen in 70% of the sample, and all patients showed poor pharyngeal constriction. Post-swallow residue was a prominent finding in ≥ 75% of these patients. In particular, reduced or absent constriction of the hypopharynx in the region of the pyriform sinuses was noted as a characteristic of swallowing in this sample. The data from these patients suggest that despite functional airway protection, severe swallowing dysfunction involving poor pharyngeal constriction and bolus clearance may be likely after OPHL surgery.

Hyoid Bone Movement During Swallowing in Female Thyroidectomy Patients: A Kinematic Ultrasound Study.

The aim of this study was to investigate the measures of displacement, time and velocity of hyoid bone movement in female thyroidectomy patients. Fifty-eight ultrasound videos of 29 women during swallowing were analyzed. The sample was divided into experimental group (EG), composed of 12 women following total or partial thyroidectomy; and control group (CG) of 17 healthy women. The kinematic measures of displacement, time and velocity of hyoid bone displacement were tracked during swallowing of 10 ml of liquid (water) and 10 ml of thickened liquid (honey) in both groups for comparisons. Additional analysis included bolus consistency effect and relationship with clinical characteristics. Ultrasound videos were analyzed according to a standardized protocol using ImageJ software. Displacement, time and velocity of hyoid movement during swallowing of 10 ml of liquid or thickened liquid were not statistically different between female thyroidectomy patients and healthy women. There is no bolus consistency effect on kinematic measures in both groups, but among thyroidectomy patients, velocity of hyoid bone movement is significantly faster in those with swallowing complaints.

The Prevalence of Dysphagia in Children with Laryngomalacia Pre and Postsupraglottoplasty: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

Introduction Laryngomalacia is the most common congenital laryngeal alteration, with spontaneous resolution in most cases. However, in the face of more severe presentations of the disease, it is necessary to perform supraglottoplasty surgery. Studies have been dedicated to researching changes in swallowing in children with laryngomalacia before and after surgical intervention. Objectives To identify the prevalence of oropharyngeal dysphagia in children with pre and postsupraglottoplasty laryngomalacia. Data Synthesis A search strategy was developed with terms and entreterms to designate a population pediatric with laryngomalacia , exposure supraglottoplasty , and outcome frequency of dysphagia , adapted to the requirements of the main databases in the health area. The analysis of the records found was performed by two independent examiners and, in the end, 6 articles were included in the study. The articles found enabled a sample of 330 children with laryngomalacia, 311 of whom underwent supraglottoplasty. Among the included studies, 5 were grouped and meta-analyzed. After supraglottoplasty surgery, a 59% reduction in the prevalence of oropharyngeal dysphagia was identified, with high heterogeneity I 2 = 93%. Conclusion Despite the heterogeneity of the sample, the supraglottoplasty procedure significantly reduces the prevalence of dysphagia in children with laryngomalacia.

Optimization of solid oral dosage form administration to patients with swallowing difficulties: An integrative review.

AIM: To appraise and synthesize research investigating optimizing the administration of solid oral dosage forms (SODFs) to adults with swallowing difficulties. DESIGN: An integrative review. METHODS: An electronic search was conducted on Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Public Medline interface), Elsevier SciVerse Scopus and Scientific Electronic Library Online (updated February 2023). Restriction regarding the publication date was not considered for the inclusion of records. Studies addressing risks, general aspects, recommendations about patient postural adjustments, swallowing techniques, swallowing aids and aspects of concealment of SODFs were included. RESULTS: Fifty-three records published between 2002 and 2021 were included. The main administration risks were aspiration, asphyxia and solid oral dosage form-induced oral/oesophageal mucosal lesions. The most frequent general aspect reported was administering one oral dosage form at a time. The sitting position was the most patient postural adjustment mentioned. The most frequently reported solid oral dosage form swallowing technique was the lean-forward method for capsules. Solid oral dosage form swallowing aids cited: tongue and throat lubricant and solid oral dosage form coating device, swallowing cup and swallowing straw. CONCLUSION: The literature data on administering SODFs for adults with swallowing difficulties were appraised and synthesized. Some aspects, for example, not administering SODFs simultaneously, can make swallowing safer. Postural adjustments and solid oral dosage form swallowing aids are important to avoid administration risks. Swallowing SODFs can be easier if learned by techniques. Liquid and food are helpful as vehicles, and several of these have been listed. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: By optimizing the contributing factors of administering oral pharmacotherapy, the nurse can use appropriate practices to improve patient safety. Additionally, knowing and establishing the administration aspects are reasonable steps for standardizing care for patients with swallowing oral dosage form difficulties. IMPACT: This study addressed administering SODFs to adult patients with swallowing difficulties. The administration of SODFs to adult patients with swallowing difficulties can be optimized if only one oral dosage form at a time is administrated and if patient postural adjustments, swallowing techniques and swallowing aids are used. This investigation will impact the care of patients with swallowing difficulties. REPORTING METHOD: The authors declare they adhered to the relevant EQUATOR guidelines and report following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 Statement. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.

Training to Analyze Functional Parameters with Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing: A Scoping Review.

Analyzing fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) is challenging and requires training to ensure the proficiency of health professionals and improve reliability. This scoping review aims to identify and map the available evidence on training health professionals to analyze FEES functional parameters. The method proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute and the PRISMA-ScR guidelines were followed. The search was performed in MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL databases, and in the gray literature. Two blinded independent reviewers screened articles by title and abstract. Then, they read the full text of the included reports, considering the eligibility criteria. Data were extracted using a standardized form. Six studies met the established eligibility criteria, published between 2009 and 2022, with few participants. All these studies addressed training as part of the process to validate a rating scale. No standardized criteria were observed regarding the selection of experts and participants, training structure, and outcome measures to assess participants' competence. The reviewed literature indicates that training must be developed to equip students and health professionals who treat dysphagia, enabling them to analyze the functional parameters of the FEES, considering variables that may influence the participants' performance.

The use of photobiomodulation in swallowing difficulties in individuals who developed the severe form of COVID-19 / O uso da fotobiomodulação na dificuldade de deglutição em indivíduos que desenvolveram a forma grave da COVID-19

ABSTRACT This study aimed to verify the use of photobiomodulation in swallowing difficulties in individuals who had a severe form of COVID-19. This case report was based on a quasi-experimental, quantitative study, with primary data collected from a non-probabilistic sample of 13 adults (aged ≥ 19 to < 60 years) of both sexes, who had the severe form of COVID-19. Swallowing was assessed with the Dysphagia Risk Assessment Protocol, and the intervention used photobiomodulation. Descriptive statistics were used. It was found that all research participants' risk for dysphagia in water and pudding swallowing tests improved from before to after the intervention. It can be concluded that photobiomodulation had positive results in speech-language-hearing practice to treat swallowing difficulties in adults who were affected by the severe form of COVID-19, intubated, tracheostomized, and needed an alternative feeding route, as the swallowing difficulties improved.

RESUMO O objetivo foi verificar o uso da fotobiomodulação na dificuldade de deglutição em indivíduos que desenvolveram a forma grave da COVID-19. Trata-se de um relato de casos, a partir de um estudo quase experimental, quantitativo, com coleta de dados primários e com amostra não probabilística, realizado com 13 indivíduos adultos (idade ≥ 19 a < 60 anos) de ambos os sexos, que tiveram a forma grave da COVID-19. Foi realizada a avaliação da deglutição pelo Protocolo de Avaliação para o Risco de Disfagia (PARD) e a intervenção com fotobiomodulação. Foi utilizada a estatística descritiva. Verificou-se que todos os participantes da pesquisa apresentaram melhora no risco para disfagia no teste de deglutição de água e de alimento pastoso do momento pré para o pós-intervenção. Pode-se concluir que a utilização da fotobiomodulação na prática fonoaudiológica para tratar a dificuldade de deglutição dos adultos que foram acometidos pela forma grave da COVID-19, intubados, traqueostomizados e necessitaram fazer uso de via alternativa de alimentação, trouxe resultados positivos, com melhora da dificuldade de deglutição.

Sensitivity and specificity of the EAT-10 and SDQ-DP in identifying the risk of dysphagia in Parkinson's disease / Sensibilidade e especificidade do EAT-10 e SDQ-DP na identificação do risco de disfagia na doença de Parkinson

Abstract Background The early identification of risk for dysphagia in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) is essential for the prevention of nutritional and pulmonary complications. Objective To analyze the sensitivity and specificity of the Swallowing Disturbance Questionnaire (SDQ-PD) and the Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) in identifying dysphagia risk in patients with early and intermediate stages of PD. Methods Twenty-nine patients with PD participated in the study. EAT-10 and SDQ-PD questionnaires were applied, and a videofluoroscopic swallowing study. Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS) was used to classify the presence and severity of dysphagia, and the Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS) was used to identify the presence of penetration/aspiration. In the statistical analysis, the sensitivity and specificity of the risk questionnaires were calculated, as well as positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy. Results EAT-10 to identify the risk of penetration/aspiration revealed a sensitivity of 71.42% and specificity of 45.45%; in the identification of the presence of dysphagia, the sensitivity was 47.61%, and the specificity was 12.5%. The SDQ-PD questionnaire for risk of penetration/aspiration demonstrated a sensitivity of 28.57%, and a specificity of 68.18%. In terms of identifying the presence of dysphagia, the sensitivity was 20%, while the specificity was 44.44%. Conclusion The SDQ-PD revealed low sensitivity and low specificity to identify the presence of dysphagia and/or penetration/aspiration in patients with early and intermediate stages of PD in this sample. Despite its low specificity, the EAT-10 exhibited good sensitivity in indicating the risk of penetration/aspiration.

Resumo Antecedentes A identificação precoce de risco para disfagia nos pacientes com doença de Parkinson (DP) é fundamental para a prevenção de complicações nutricionais e pulmonares. Objetivo Analisar a sensibilidade e especificidade dos questionários Swallowing Disturbance Questionnaire (SDQ-PD) e Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) para a identificação do risco de disfagia em pacientes com DP nos estágios iniciais e intermediários da doença. Métodos Participaram 29 pacientes com DP. Foi realizado a aplicação dos questionários EAT-10 e SDQ-PD e o exame de videofluoroscopia da deglutição. Para a classificação da presença e gravidade da disfagia foi utilizada a escala Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale e, para identificação da presença de penetração/aspiração, a escala Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS). Na análise estatística, calcularam-se a sensibilidade e a especificidade dos questionários de risco EAT-10 e SDQ-DP e o valor preditivo positivo, o valor preditivo negativo e a acurácia. Resultados A análise do EAT-10 para identificar o risco de penetração/aspiração revelou sensibilidade de 71.42% e especificidade de 45.45%; para identificar a presença de disfagia, a sensibilidade foi de 47,61% e a especificidade de 12.5%. Em relação ao questionário SDQ-PD, para identificar risco de penetração/aspiração, a sensibilidade foi de 28.57% e a especificidade de 68.18% e, para identificar a presença de disfagia, a sensibilidade foi de 20% e a especificidade de 44.44%. Conclusão O questionário SDQ-PD revelou baixa sensibilidade e baixa especificidade para identificar presença de disfagia e/ou penetração/aspiração em pacientes com DP em estágios iniciais e intermediários para essa amostra. O EAT-10 revelou boa sensibilidade na indicação de risco de penetração/aspiração, apesar de baixa especificidade.

Clinical outcomes before and after videofluoroscopic swallow study in children 24 months of age or younger / Desfechos clínicos antes e depois da videofluoroscopia da deglutição em crianças com 24 meses de idade ou menos

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the combined impact of videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) and therapeutic feeding and swallowing interventions on clinical outcomes in children with oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD). Methods: This was an uncontrolled longitudinal analytical study in which OPD patients were evaluated before and after VFSS. Children ≤ 24 months of age diagnosed with OPD in a clinical setting and undergoing VFSS for investigation and management of OPD were included in the study. The study participants received therapeutic feeding and swallowing interventions after having undergone VFSS, being followed at an outpatient clinic for pediatric dysphagia in order to monitor feeding and swallowing difficulties. Respiratory and feeding outcomes were compared before and after VFSS. Results: Penetration/aspiration events were observed in 61% of the VFSSs (n = 72), and therapeutic feeding and swallowing interventions were recommended for 97% of the study participants. After the VFSS, there was a reduction in the odds of receiving antibiotic therapy (OR = 0.007) and in the duration of antibiotic therapy (p = 0.014), as well as in the odds of being admitted to hospital (p = 0.024) and in the length of hospital stay (p = 0.025). A combination of oral and enteral feeding became more common than oral or enteral feeding alone (p = 0.002). Conclusions: A high proportion of participants exhibited penetration/aspiration on VFSS. Therapeutic feeding and swallowing interventions following a VFSS appear to be associated with reduced respiratory morbidity in this population.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto conjunto da videofluoroscopia da deglutição (VFD) e intervenções terapêuticas de alimentação e deglutição nos desfechos clínicos em crianças com disfagia orofaríngea (DOF). Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo analítico longitudinal não controlado em que pacientes com DOF foram avaliados antes e depois da VFD. Foram incluídas no estudo crianças com idade ≤ 24 meses e diagnóstico clínico de DOF, submetidas à VFD para a investigação e manejo da DOF. Os participantes do estudo receberam intervenções terapêuticas de alimentação e deglutição após terem sido submetidos à VFD, sendo então acompanhados em um ambulatório de disfagia pediátrica para o monitoramento das dificuldades de alimentação e deglutição. Os desfechos respiratórios e alimentares foram comparados antes e depois da VFD. Resultados: Eventos de penetração/aspiração foram observados em 61% das VFD (n = 72), e intervenções terapêuticas de alimentação e deglutição foram recomendadas a 97% dos participantes do estudo. Após a VFD, houve uma redução das chances de receber antibioticoterapia (OR = 0,007) e da duração da antibioticoterapia (p = 0,014), bem como das chances de internação hospitalar (p = 0,024) e do tempo de internação (p = 0,025). A alimentação por via oral e enteral em conjunto tornou-se mais comum do que a alimentação exclusivamente por via oral ou enteral (p = 0,002). Conclusões: Houve alta proporção de crianças que apresentaram penetração/aspiração na VFD. As intervenções terapêuticas de alimentação e deglutição após a VFD parecem estar associadas à redução da morbidade respiratória nessa população.

Swallowing symptoms increase the risk of dynapenia in community-dwelling oldest old: A retrospective cohort study

ABSTRACT Purpose: to investigate the association between swallowing symptoms and dynapenia in Brazilian older adults, of an 8-year follow-up cohort study. Methods: a retrospective cohort analysis using data from the FIBRA (Brazilian Elderly Frailty) study, at a baseline survey in 2008-2009 and follow-up in 2016-2017. Swallowing complaints were assessed by nine dichotomous questions and dynapenia was assessed using handgrip strength. Principal component analysis was used to determine the swallowing complaints, and logistic regression models were used to associate swallowing complaints at the baseline with dynapenia at the follow-up. Statistical models were adjusted for demographic characteristics, body mass index (BMI), chronic diseases, cognition, and physical performance. Descriptive and comparative statistics were used, considering p < 0.05. Results: 404 older adults were included, predominantly women (68.3%). Principal Component Analysis determined the swallowing symptoms change in taste, difficulty or pain in chewing hard food, difficulty or pain to swallow, and feeling of still or stuck food. According to the logistic regression model, older adults who reported swallowing symptoms at baseline, exhibited risk of developing dynapenia at the follow-up (odds ratio=1.384, 95% CI: 1.119 to 1.713, p=0.003). The difficulty or pain to swallow associated with age, sex, years of education, and number of chronic diseases consisted of self-report, cognitive functioning, and physical performance increased the risk of dynapenia in four times for (OR=5.744; 95% CI: 2.187 to 15.088; p<0.001). Conclusions: the study revealed that the swallowing symptoms at baseline exhibited risk of developing dynapenia at follow-up in older adults. This research reinforces the importance of longitudinal studies incorporating variables such as swallowing symptoms, sociodemographic aspects, BMI, cognitive decline, and physical performance and muscular strength to better understand the significance of swallowing symptoms in the aging process.