Fluoroscopic evaluation of oropharyngeal dysphagia: anatomic, technical, and common etiologic factors

The purposes of this article are to review the anatomy of the upper gastrointestinal tract; review techniques and contrast agents used in the fluoroscopic examination of the oropharynx and hypopharynx; provide a pictorial review of some important causes of oropharyngeal dysphagia; and link these causes to key findings in the clinical history to assist in establishing a clinical diagnosis.

Many important causes and presentations of oropharyngeal dysphagia are sometimes overlooked during conventional upper gastrointestinal studies. Videofluoroscopic evaluation for assessment of both structural abnormalities and motility disorders of the oropharynx by use of various compositions of barium contrast medium is the standard of practice. Using best-practices radiographic techniques and having knowledge of swallowing mechanisms and various diseases are important for assessment of dysphagia. Dynamic fluoroscopic imaging remains an essential tool for assessing functional disorders of swallowing. Detailed videofluoroscopic assessment can guide treatment decisions with the goal of decreasing the secondary complications of dysphagia.