Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Studies: A Proposed Checklist.

Area of Science:

• Speech and Hearing Sciences
• Medical Imaging
• Clinical Research Methodology

Background:

• Videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) is a widely used method in dysphagia research.
• Significant variations in VFSS conduct and interpretation exist across studies, hindering comparability.
• Lack of standardized reporting impedes the reliability and generalizability of dysphagia research findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline optimal VFSS reporting guidelines within the Framework for RigOr aNd Transparency In REseaRch on Swallowing (FRONTIERS).
• To promote rigor and transparency in dysphagia research through a standardized critical appraisal tool for VFSS.
• To ensure that all elements influencing VFSS interpretation in research are clearly reported.

Main Methods:

• Development of 27 questions concerning VFSS reporting rigor and transparency based on literature review.
• Review and refinement of questions by the FRONTIERS Framework collaborative.
• Selection of mandatory, unnecessary, and revised questions for the final appraisal tool.

Main Results:

• The FRONTIERS Framework tool for VFSS reporting includes 20 core questions and seven subquestions.
• These questions are organized into four key themes: patient positioning, equipment/recording settings, contrast agents, and rating methods.
• The tool addresses operational definitions and reliability in VFSS interpretation.

Conclusions:

• The FRONTIERS Framework facilitates rigorous and transparent reporting of VFSS in research.
• This tool aids in evaluating study outcomes and designing future research in dysphagia.
• Adoption of the FRONTIERS Framework promotes best practices in dysphagia research and clinical applications.