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Methodology for detecting swallowing sounds
K Takahashi1, M E Groher, K Michi
1Department of Audiology/Speech Pathology, James A. Haley V.A. Hospital, Tampa, Florida 33612.
Dysphagia
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Acoustic analysis of swallowing sounds using an accelerometer offers objective criteria for detecting swallowing disorders. The optimal site for sound detection is the lateral trachea below the cricoid cartilage, enhancing clinical evaluation of dysphagia.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Otolaryngology
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Cervical auscultation is a subjective method for evaluating pharyngeal swallowing in patients with dysphagia.
- Objective acoustic analysis of swallowing sounds can improve the detection of swallowing disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the optimal methodology for acoustic analysis of pharyngeal swallowing sounds.
- Investigate detector unit type, adhesive suitability, and optimal sound detection site.
Main Methods:
- An accelerometer with double-sided paper tape was chosen as the detector unit.
- Swallowing sounds and noise were recorded at 24 neck sites in 14 normal subjects.
- Acoustic analysis focused on signal-to-noise ratio to identify the optimal detection site.
Main Results:
- The accelerometer demonstrated a wide frequency response and low attenuation, suitable for acoustic analysis.
- The optimal site for detecting swallowing sounds was identified as the lateral border of the trachea inferior to the cricoid cartilage.
- This site yielded the highest signal-to-noise ratio with minimal variance, alongside other suitable sites.
Conclusions:
- Acoustic analysis of cervical auscultation provides objective criteria for dysphagia evaluation.
- The lateral trachea inferior to the cricoid cartilage is the recommended site for accurate swallowing sound detection.
- This methodology can enhance the clinical assessment of swallowing function.