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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
14:13
Coordinate Mapping of Hyolaryngeal Mechanics in Swallowing
Published on: May 6, 2014
Validation of the pharyngeal squeeze maneuver
Scott C Fuller1, Rebecca Leonard, Shervin Aminpour
1Center for Voice and Swallowing, University of California at Davis Medical Center, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Sacramento, California 95817, USA.
Summary
The pharyngeal squeeze maneuver (PSM) is a valid measure of pharyngeal strength. This study found that an absent PSM correlates with a weaker pharynx, supporting its use in clinical assessments.
Area of Science:
- Swallowing disorders
- Gastroenterology
- Clinical assessment tools
Background:
- The pharyngeal squeeze maneuver (PSM) is used as an indirect measure of pharyngeal muscle strength during endoscopic evaluations.
- The clinical validity of the PSM as a measure of pharyngeal strength has not been previously established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and confirm the validity of the pharyngeal squeeze maneuver (PSM) as a surrogate measure of pharyngeal strength.
- To compare the PSM with a validated measure of pharyngeal function.
Main Methods:
- A case series design was employed with planned data collection.
- Simultaneous endoscopic and fluoroscopic swallow evaluations were conducted in individuals with dysphagia.
- The PSM was assessed and compared against the pharyngeal constriction ratio (PCR), a validated measure where higher values indicate pharyngeal weakness.
Main Results:
- Individuals with an absent PSM exhibited a significantly higher mean PCR (0.31 +/- 0.20) compared to those with an intact PSM (0.06 +/- 0.08).
- The elevated PCR in individuals with an absent PSM indicates a weaker pharyngeal function (P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- The pharyngeal constriction ratio is significantly elevated in individuals with a diminished pharyngeal squeeze.
- These findings support the pharyngeal squeeze maneuver as a valid surrogate measure for assessing pharyngeal motor integrity.
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