Dysphagia Ramblings

The Clinician’s Place for Information, Ideas and Awareness

Not Nectar Thick The Truth About Carbonated Beverages and Dysphagia

The McNeill Dysphagia Therapy Program MDTP

assessment

Management

Resources

Product Review

Thickened Liquids

Research

Management, Research

MD Anderson Bootcamp for Swallowing

Dysphagia post-head and neck cancer treatment is a significant challenge for clinicians. MD Anderson’s 2012 Dysphagia Boot Camp offers a reactive therapy for patients with severe swallowing difficulties. Through intensive, multidisciplinary approaches, participants engage in personalized rehabilitation aiming to improve safety, efficiency, and quality of life, resulting in notable improvements in swallowing outcomes.
View : MD Anderson Bootcamp for Swallowing
Assessment, Management

Redefining Dysphagia Care: From Observation to Rehabilitation

The post discusses the inadequacies of current dysphagia therapy practices, emphasizing the need for instrumental evaluations like MBSS and FEES to properly assess swallowing. It criticizes superficial interventions in favor of evidence-based, individualized rehabilitation strategies that enhance patient outcomes. The author urges speech-language pathologists to adopt a proactive approach in their therapy sessions.
View : Redefining Dysphagia Care: From Observation to Rehabilitation
Assessment, Management

Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) One Gold Standard Assessment

FEES (Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is an assessment procedure gaining recognition alongside the Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBSS). It allows real-time visualization of swallowing mechanics without barium, offering insights into aspiration and residue. Myths surrounding FEES, such as pain and safety, are debunked, reinforcing its value in dysphagia diagnosis.
View : Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) One Gold Standard Assessment
Assessment

Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBSS) One Gold Standard Assessment

The dysphagia field is divided between Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBSS) and Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). Each assessment has its strengths, and using both together offers a comprehensive understanding of swallowing function. Advocating for access to both methods can enhance patient evaluation and treatment outcomes, focusing on physiological deficits rather than just safety.
View : Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBSS) One Gold Standard Assessment
Resources

30 Facts About Dysphagia to Raise Awareness and Improve Patient Care

June is Dysphagia Awareness Month, highlighting the condition affecting millions. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can stem from various underlying issues and leads to serious health risks. Speech-Language Pathologists play a vital role in diagnosis and treatment. Raising awareness about dysphagia improves outcomes for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers alike.
View : 30 Facts About Dysphagia to Raise Awareness and Improve Patient Care
Management

Nutrition Essentials for Modified Diets

Nutrition is vital for health, especially for individuals on modified diets, who are at risk of malnutrition. Macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) play crucial roles. Strategies such as food fortification, small frequent meals, and hydration can enhance nutritional intake, ensuring patients maintain health and well-being despite dietary restrictions.
View : Nutrition Essentials for Modified Diets
Resources

Modern Dysphagia Cooking: Turn Family Favorites into Dysphagia-Friendly Dishes

Simply Thick has released a cookbook featuring dysphagia-friendly recipes compliant with IDDSI levels 4, 5, and 6. It includes simple pureeing techniques for common foods, alongside informative chapters on dysphagia and nutrition. This resource aids families, patients, and caregivers in preparing compliant meals, enhancing dietary understanding and meal preparation.
View : Modern Dysphagia Cooking: Turn Family Favorites into Dysphagia-Friendly Dishes
Product Review

SWIK Oral Suction System

The SWIK Oral Suction System is an innovative solution for managing oral secretions. Unlike traditional suction methods, it uses a small sponge to collect secretions hands-free. Its design emphasizes user comfort and dignity. Created by hairdresser Rebecca Altounian, it offers a discreet alternative for those needing assistance.
View : SWIK Oral Suction System
Management

Intensive Dysphagia Rehabilitation (IDR)

Intensive Dysphagia Rehabilitation (IDR) streamlines therapy for patients with moderate to severe dysphagia through evidence-based protocols leveraging neuroplasticity. By focusing on targeted swallowing exercises and patient adherence, IDR enhances treatment efficacy, improving patient outcomes and compliance. It marks a significant shift from compensation to active rehabilitation in dysphagia therapy.
View : Intensive Dysphagia Rehabilitation (IDR)
Management, Resources

Head and Neck Cancer and Dysphagia: Treatment Options and Timing

Effective management of dysphagia in head and neck cancer patients involves early assessment and initiation of swallowing therapy alongside treatment. Various strategies, including rigorous swallowing exercises and innovative programs like MD Anderson’s Swallowing Boot Camp, show promise in improving swallowing function and quality of life, despite challenges in standardization and adherence.
View : Head and Neck Cancer and Dysphagia: Treatment Options and Timing