Swallowing therapy in patients with neurological disorders causing cricopharyngeal dysfunction

The results of swallowing therapy in 28 patients with neurological disorders causing cricopharyngeal (CP) dysfunction are reported. Variables described include the type of swallowing disorder, type and degree of aspiration, and therapeutic strategies. Patients were monitored by cineradiography before, during, and after therapy. Success of therapy was defined by progress in type, ease and safety of feeding, and range of diet. As an example, a case of an unusually severe disorder of a CP opening subsequent to brainstem meningoencephalitis is described. The bedside clinical evaluation, otolaryngologic findings, and radiographic studies helped determine an individualized program of swallowing therapy. Therapy goals, direct and indirect therapeutic strategies, and the treatment outcome are presented. Ninety percent of patients with CP dysfunction improved with swallowing therapy, 65% by objective and 25% by subjective criteria. We conclude that in neurological patients with CP, dysfunction can effectively be treated with swallowing therapy and that surgical approaches to CP dysfunction should be deferred pending the outcome of conservative management.