Toward classification of dysphagic patients using biomechanical measurements

Identification of a patient at risk of aspiration is a major problem in the rehabilitation of the dysphagic patient. The present methods of diagnosis are based on clinical evaluation or videofluorography or fiberoptic endoscopic examination of swallowing (FEES). Recently, we developed biomechanical techniques for noninvasive quantitative assessment of the dysphagic patient. The purpose of the present investigation was to assess the clinical validity of the technique. In a double-blind study, both biomechanical test results and videofluorography (including bedside evaluation) results were used to independently classify the patients into four categories of risk for aspiration. Of the 36 patients studied, there was complete agreement between the biomechanical and clinical classifications in 21 patients. In 11 patients, the biomechanical technique overestimated the risk by one category, and underestimated the risk by one category in four patients. The biomechanical technique presents a useful tool for continued patient assessment; however, further studies are needed.