Question 1

Which diagnostic study is best to evaluate a swallowing disorder?&#10;A) Computerized tomography (CT) of the head and neck&#10;B) Electroglottography&#10;C) Electron microscopy&#10;D) Videofluoroscopy (VFES)

Accepted Answer

Videofluoroscopy (VFES) is considered the gold standard for evaluating swallowing disorders. It allows for visualization of the anatomy and function of the swallowing process in real-time. CT scans, electroglottography, and electron microscopy do not provide the same level of detail for assessing swallowing function.

Question 2

A patient experiences a feeding disorder after a stroke that causes disordered tongue function and impaired laryngeal closure. What intervention will be helpful to reduce complications in this patient?

A) Surface electrical stimulation
B) Teaching head rotation
C) Thickened liquids
D) Thinning liquids

C

Accepted Answer

Thickened liquids can help reduce the risk of aspiration in patients with disordered tongue function and impaired laryngeal closure. Surface electrical stimulation and teaching head rotation may be helpful in some patients with dysphagia, but they are not specifically indicated for this patient's presentation. Thinning liquids are contraindicated as they increase the risk of aspiration.

Question 3

An older adult patient has recently experienced weight loss. The patient's spouse reports noticing coughing and choking when eating. What is the likely cause of this presentation?&#10;A) Esophageal dysphagia&#10;B) Oral stage dysphagia&#10;C) Pharyngeal dysphagia&#10;D) Xerostomia causing dysphagia

Accepted Answer

Pharyngeal dysphagia is a common cause of weight loss in older adults and can result in coughing and choking during meals. Esophageal dysphagia may present with food getting stuck in the chest or throat, but is less likely to cause coughing and choking during meals. Oral stage dysphagia typically presents as difficulty chewing and moving food around in the mouth, but may not necessarily cause weight loss. Xerostomia, or dry mouth, may also contribute to dysphagia, but is not the primary cause in this case.

Deck 116: Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Adults