Aspiration: diagnostic contributions from bedside swallowing evaluation and endoscopy

The aim of this study was to identify which characteristics, collected by bedside swallowing evaluation (BSE) and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), are a risk or a protective factor for aspiration. This retrospective study included data on 1577 consecutive patients, collected by BSE and FEES. Bivariate analysis was performed to verify the association of each variable with aspiration (Chi-Square test). The variables associated with aspiration were entered into a multivariate logistic model to quantify this association. Several variables were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with aspiration; cooperation, sensation, laryngeal elevation and direct therapy were found to be protective factors against aspiration. The regression model identified the most variables related with aspiration, among which tracheotomy, material pooling and spillage. Patients able to perform dry swallows were 77% less likely to aspirate (protective factor). Several variables are involved in protection of airways during swallowing. Their interaction, in patients with swallowing disorders, offers the clinician the best means of interpreting BSE and FEES.