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Coordinate Mapping of Hyolaryngeal Mechanics in Swallowing
Published on: May 6, 2014
Lung volume effects on pharyngeal swallowing physiology
Roxann Diez Gross1, Charles W Atwood, Judith P Grayhack
1Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA 15240, USA. Roxann.Gross@med.va.gov
Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)
|August 12, 2003
Summary
Lung volume significantly impacts swallowing duration, with residual volume prolonging pharyngeal activity. This suggests the respiratory system plays a key role in swallowing integrity, potentially informing new treatments for oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Respiratory System
- Deglutition
Background:
- Swallowing (deglutition) is a complex physiological process.
- The interplay between respiratory function and swallowing is not fully understood.
- Oropharyngeal dysphagia affects millions, necessitating research into its underlying mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of varying lung volumes on swallowing physiology.
- To determine if respiratory maneuvers influence specific swallowing measures.
- To explore the regulatory role of the respiratory system in deglutition.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, repeated-measures design.
- Simultaneous videofluoroscopy, electromyography, and respiratory inductance plethysmography.
- 28 healthy adults swallowed standardized boluses at total lung capacity, functional residual capacity, and residual volume.
Main Results:
- Pharyngeal activity duration was significantly longer at residual volume compared to total lung capacity and functional residual capacity.
- Bolus transit time and superior constrictor electromyography showed no significant differences across lung volumes.
- Findings support a regulatory role for the respiratory system in swallowing.
Conclusions:
- Lung volume variation influences pharyngeal activity duration during swallowing.
- Positive subglottic air pressure may be crucial for maintaining swallowing integrity.
- Results may lead to novel treatment strategies for oropharyngeal dysphagia based on respiratory physiology.
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