Dynamic study of oro-pharyngeal deglutition
Fanucci, A.; Cerro, P.; Diotallevi, P.; Fanucci, E.; Metastasio, F.
La Radiologia Medica 81(3): 276-285
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0033-8362 PMID: 2014333 Document Number: 384526
Oropharyngeal swallowing is too fast and complex a motion for the human eye to seize its various phases and subsequently evaluate morphology and function of the anatomical structures involved. A chronological subdivision of the swallowing act is needed for a step-by-step analysis. Dynamic evaluation of oropharyngeal swallowing by means of fluoroscopic and US videorecording proved to be a reliable method. Echovideorecording allowed tongue movements to be depicted, together with bolus formation and propulsion. Fluorovideorecording (U-matic Sony unit, 25-30 images/sec) demonstrated pharyngeal and esophageal phases. A series of chronological and morphological reference points, which characterize oropharyngeal swallowing, were employed to analyze videorecorded images. Slow-motion mode, "freezed" images, and rewinding allowed an easy and accurate evaluation of swallowing details. Combined chronological and morphological pieces of information allow a comprehensive evaluation of the swallowing act.