Swallowing Problems

Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS)

In a videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS), the patient swallows a variety of liquids and foods mixed with barium, as a radiologist takes video X-rays of the mouth and throat. These images show how food passes from the mouth through the throat and into the esophagus. They may also reveal aspiration -- foreign matter entering the lungs -- if barium enters the windpipe. Aspiration puts patients at risk for lung infections.

At Mayo, a VFSS is performed with a radiologist and a speech-language pathologist. During the test, a speech pathologist may ask patients to alter their head position, such as tucking the chin, or to try various techniques, such as holding their breath, to improve swallowing.

The test is given to:

• Patients with a history of upper respiratory infections, unexplained fevers or aspiration pneumonia
• Patients who report a lumplike sensation in their throat or pain upon swallowing
• Patients who complain of difficulty swallowing liquid, food or medications
• Stroke patients who experience difficulty swallowing, throat clearing or choking during meals
• Patients with a history of swallowing difficulty who have Parkinson's Disease, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's disease
• Patients with a tracheotomy who might be able to tolerate oral feedings or dietary changes
• Patients who receive nutrition with a gastronomy tube or nasogastric tube to see if they can tolerate oral feedings

A VFSS takes about 10 minutes to complete. It is not painful and no preparation is necessary.