A Modified Barium Swallow Study is performed by a radiologist and speech pathologist to evaluate all steps of swallowing from the chewing of food to the eventual passage from the throat into the stomach. It provides important information regarding what a person is capable of swallowing, if swallowing is safe, and also helps determine what maneuvers and excises can be performed to improve swallowing.
The study itself takes about a half hour to complete. The patient swallows food and liquids of different consistencies while x rays are being taken. The x-ray helps to determine if aspiration occurs, and if there are any obstructions to swallowing. It is an important tool that is often used prior to starting swallow therapy.
Modified Barium Swallow Study
