nyelésvizsgálat

Nyelésvizsgálat, also known as a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) or modified barium swallow (MBS), is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to assess the complex physiological process of swallowing. It provides a dynamic view of the oral cavity, pharynx, and upper esophagus during the act of swallowing various consistencies of food and liquid. This examination is crucial for identifying and characterizing swallowing difficulties, medically termed dysphagia, which can arise from neurological conditions, structural abnormalities, or age-related changes.

The procedure involves a radiologist or speech-language pathologist observing the patient swallow small amounts of food or liquid mixed with barium, a contrast agent that makes the swallowing structures visible on X-ray. Real-time X-ray imaging is recorded, allowing for detailed analysis of the oral transit, pharyngeal phase, and the initiation of the esophageal phase of swallowing. Specific aspects evaluated include tongue movement, laryngeal elevation, epiglottic inversion, and the presence of aspiration (food or liquid entering the airway) or penetration (material entering the airway but not passing the vocal cords).

Based on the findings, healthcare professionals can determine the underlying cause of dysphagia, the severity of the swallowing impairment, and the risk of aspiration pneumonia. This information guides the development of individualized treatment plans, which may include dietary modifications, compensatory strategies, or targeted swallowing therapy to improve safety and efficiency during meals and reduce the risk of complications. Nyelésvizsgálat is a valuable tool in the comprehensive management of swallowing disorders.