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Published on: January 17, 2011
Current practice in paediatric videofluoroscopy
Melanie P Hiorns1, Martina M Ryan
1Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1N 3JH, UK. hiornm@gosh.nhs.uk
Insights
The videofluoroscopy swallow study (VFSS), or modified barium swallow (MBS), is increasingly used in pediatric care. This review covers its techniques, findings, and limitations for assessing swallowing difficulties in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric radiology
- Swallowing disorders
- Diagnostic imaging
Background:
- The videofluoroscopy swallow study (VFSS), also known as the modified barium swallow (MBS), is a crucial diagnostic tool.
- Its utilization in pediatric evaluations for dysphagia has seen a significant rise.
- Understanding its application is vital for effective patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of the videofluoroscopy swallow study (VFSS) in pediatric populations.
- To delineate the scope and inherent limitations of the VFSS examination.
- To explore current techniques and illustrate key findings associated with pediatric dysphagia.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and clinical practices regarding VFSS in children.
- Analysis of the examination's technical aspects and diagnostic capabilities.
- Illustration of common findings through case examples (supported by online video resources).
Main Results:
- The VFSS/MBS is an expanding diagnostic modality in pediatric swallowing assessments.
- The review details the examination's scope, including its strengths and weaknesses.
- Key findings and techniques are presented, aiding in the interpretation of swallowing function.
Conclusions:
- The VFSS/MBS is an essential, though not infallible, tool for evaluating pediatric swallowing disorders.
- Awareness of its techniques and limitations is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
- This review serves as a guide for clinicians utilizing this imaging technique.
Abstract:
Use of the videofluoroscopy swallow study (VFSS), also known as the modified barium swallow (MBS), continues to increase in children. This article reviews the scope and limitations of the examination, explores the current techniques and illustrates some of the main findings. As moving images are key to the understanding of the use of this technique short videos are available in the on-line version of this paper.
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